Could someone please explain the risks of plugging into a random USB device?
I see a handful of people alluding to risks (viz. "USB Condom") but I don't understand precisely what the issue is.
On Windows, presumably there's autorun.inf which can launch any executable on the USB drive. Is that correct? What about if you plug in from Unix or MacOS?
Bonus question: What are the risk factors, both for you and the host, if you charge your smart-phone in a stranger's laptop through USB?
Also there is the obvious risk of carrying around and taking out a relatively expensive device like a laptop or a tablet. A good location for a dead drop would probably be a good location for a mugger, since neither should be too public.
I see a handful of people alluding to risks (viz. "USB Condom") but I don't understand precisely what the issue is.
On Windows, presumably there's autorun.inf which can launch any executable on the USB drive. Is that correct? What about if you plug in from Unix or MacOS?
Bonus question: What are the risk factors, both for you and the host, if you charge your smart-phone in a stranger's laptop through USB?