In the near future, USB-C cables might feature built-in security. This will be made possible by the use of a new standard known as USB Type-C Authentication which will use cryptography to authenticate connected chargers. It will not just ensure that devices being used are certified, but will also enhance security. The authentication protocol will safeguard device producers as well as consumers by guaranteeing that only genuine chargers can be used to charge devices.
A New Cryptographic Authentication Protocol Will Prevent Cheaper Quality Chargers and Cables From Being Used With More Expensive Machines
The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) has been working on the development of the new protocol for a number of years. The new system will verify if the connected hardware and the cable being used is safe and supports the same standard. The authentication process will begin as soon as the devices are connected so that device access is not granted if something seems inappropriate. This is achieved thanks to 128-bit cryptography.
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This authentication will protect users from malware and cheap counterfeit chargers that do not deliver the correct amount of power and can potentially damage hardware. This can be useful especially when using USB charging points in public places such as restaurants and airports. For enterprise users, the standard would limit interconnection between devices to step up security for sensitive data. For users, such a system would prevent them from using low-quality non-MFi certified third-party chargers with their iPhones, or restrict counterfeit chargers to slower charging.
This will reduce the likelihood of overheating and explosion incidents. Since Apple is a member of the USB-IF, it is probable that its future devices ranging from its Macs, iPads and perhaps iPhones will support the standard. The new program is flexible, which means that OEMs, including Apple, can implement a security framework that suits their requirements the best.
This might encourage low-quality accessory manufacturers to up their game when it comes to protection of products. Even if they will not be releasing products meant for Apple’s product line, other phone makers might expect its partners to launch quality goods in the future.
Source: USB
