Although the trend in wireless communication in peripheral devices such as keyboards and mice is moving towards Bluetooth, market leaders such as Logitech and Microsoft rely on cost-efficient, tried-and-tested 27Mhz radio technology.

Using just a simple radio receiver, a soundcard and suitable software, the remote-exploit.org members Max Moser & Philipp Schroedel have managed to tap and decode the radio frequencies transmitted between the keyboard and PC/notebook computer.

Although manufacturers of wireless keyboards partially prevent data from being tapped by using cryptography, unfortunately the encryption is weak and thus does not offer real protection.

During the test, we succeeded in eavesdropping traffic from a distanceof up to ten meters. With the appropriate technical equipment, larger distances are possible.