Treat open-source code as if you wrote it yourself. Make no assumptions about its security or safety, because there are no guarantees. Use code security and software composition analysis tools—or threat models! Imagine how attackers might exploit the open-source components, and build defenses for each attack.…read more
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Forbes
by – Forbes Council Members on November 15, 2023
PROJECT
Motorcycle Ignition Control System (ICS) Reverse Engineering
CUSTOMER CONCERNS
The motorcycle’s ignition control system (ICS) governs the spark timing to ignite the engine’s fuel-air mixture. The client needed to understand if the system could be reverse-engineered to tweak the performance of the motorcycle, such as increasing horsepower by adjusting spark timing or altering the rev limits.
THE MISSION: WHY WE HACKED IT
The ignition control system on this motorcycle was being investigated for potential performance tuning. The system was embedded within a sealed box and controlled the timing of the ignition sparks via a microcontroller. The client wanted to reverse engineer the system to modify the engine’s performance. The goal was to learn more about the ICS and determine if it could be reprogrammed to boost performance without compromising reliability.
PROJECT
Sprinkler Controller with BLE Support and Mobile Apps
CUSTOMER CONCERNS
With the addition of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support, the client’s updated controllers were designed to allow users to control the system remotely via mobile applications. The client needed to ensure that this new connectivity didn’t introduce vulnerabilities, which could potentially expose customer devices to unauthorized access.
THE MISSION: WHY WE HACKED IT
The client was integrating BLE into their next-generation IoT sprinkler controller. BLE is a common technology in IoT devices, but it’s also a frequent target for hackers due to its security misconfigurations. The client needed assurance that the new connectivity didn’t open up paths for attackers to compromise devices, manipulate sprinkler settings, or gain unauthorized access to user networks. Our goal was to pinpoint any security flaws early, ensuring that customers’ homes and gardens weren’t at risk from cyber threats.
As a result, the client’s BLE-supported sprinkler controllers were not only more secure, but they also provided peace of mind to end-users, who could trust that their smart systems were robust against potential cyber threats. This proactive security testing allowed the client to go to market with confidence, turning a potential risk into a competitive advantage.