Network Attacks Against Physical Security Systems

Architecture and Background

With the rise of the Internet of Things, the line between the physical and the digital is growing ever more hazy. Devices that once only existed in the tangible world are now accessible by anyone with a network connection.

Vulnerability Analysis

Even physical security systems, a significant part of any large organization’s overall security posture, are being given network interfaces to make management and access more convenient. But that convenience also significantly increases the risk of attack, and hacks that were once thought to only exist in movies, like opening a building’s doors from a laptop or modifying a camera feed live, are now possible and even easy to pull off.

Exploitation and Demonstrations

In this talk, we will discuss this new attack surface and demonstrate various ways an attacker can circumvent and compromise devices such as door controllers, security cameras, and motion sensors over the network, as well as ways to protect yourself from such attacks. Ricky ‘HeadlessZeke’ Lawshae has spent the better part of the last decade voiding warranties and annoying vendors for both business and pleasure.

Remediation and Defensive Strategies

He has spoken at several conferences including DEF CON , Ruxcon, Recon, and Insomnihack on a variety of topics involving network protocols and embedded devices. By day, he works as a mild-mannered security researcher for TippingPoint DVLabs. By night, he roams the streets in search of justice.