SmartAttack Uses Smartwatches to Hack Air-Gapped PCs

A newly discovered cyberattack method, known as “SmartAttack,” leverages smartwatches to exfiltrate sensitive data from air-gapped systems, according to findings reported this week. The technique employs the built-in sensors of smartwatches to receive covert ultrasonic signals emitted by compromised devices within isolated environments. These air-gapped systems, typically disconnected from external networks for enhanced security, are often considered highly secure against remote threats.

SmartAttack challenges that assumption by turning wearable consumer electronics into covert data receivers. Once a system is infected, it can transmit encoded information via ultrasonic frequencies that are inaudible to humans but detectable by nearby smartwatches. The smartwatch then records and stores the data for later retrieval by attackers.

The method highlights growing concerns about unconventional data exfiltration techniques that exploit everyday technology. As reliance on smart devices increases, experts warn that even air-gapped environments may not be immune to espionage tactics using non-traditional communication channels.