Security experts have warned that Android users are particularly at
risk. Pattern Lock is an alternative to PIN codes or text passwords
that’s used by around 40 percent of all Android owners.
But attackers can crack Pattern Lock within five attempts using
video and computer vision algorithm software, scientists at Lancaster
University, Northwest University in China, and the University of Bath
warned.
They will covertly film a smartphone owner drawing their lock
pattern shape in a busy cafe, for example. The attacker will then use
software to quickly track their victim’s fingertip movements. Within
seconds the software suggests several patterns – one of which is the key
to the phone.
This means thieves can target snazzy phones knowing they will be able to unlock them.
But it could pose serious national security risks, too. Hackers
will be able to access sensitive information or install malicious
tracking software if a device is left unattended.
Results are accurate on video recorded on a mobile phone from up to two and a half metres away.
“As well as for locking their devices, people tend to use
complex patterns for important financial transactions such as online
banking and shopping because they believe it is a secure system,” said Dr Zheng Wang.
“However, our findings suggest that using Pattern Lock to protect sensitive information could actually be very risky.”
You can protect yourself by hiding your fingers while drawing your pattern, or drawing a sentence to create a pattern.
The scientists added that developers should consider adding a
feature to dim the screen and change the brightness of the screen colour
to confused a snooping camera.
-Sun UK
After dropping your comment, take a chill pill, it may take minutes before it appears after moderation.
Your comment(s) are appreciated.
You want to get notified when i reply your comment? Kindly tick the Notify Me box.