To Dock or Not to Dock - Using Laptop Docking Stations as Attack Platforms

Explore the security vulnerabilities of laptop docking stations in corporate environments through this Black Hat Europe 2013 conference talk. Delve into how attackers can exploit these seemingly innocuous devices, often considered trusted and "dumb," to gain privileged access to corporate networks. Learn about the construction and demonstration of a remotely controllable, covert hardware implant within a commonly used laptop docking station. Discover techniques for detecting such devices and mitigating the risks they pose. Gain insights into the inner workings of docking stations, various attack vectors including network data capture, video attacks, keystroke insertion, and USB monitoring. Understand the importance of securing not just laptops but also their docking stations in hot-desking environments. Examine detection methods such as weighing docking stations, infrared heat signatures, and monitoring current consumption. Conclude with a discussion on preventive measures and future research directions in this critical area of corporate cybersecurity.