Google Replaces Titan Security Keys Due to Vulnerability

Google Replaces Titan Security Keys Due to Vulnerability

Google announced its Bluetooth security keys could be vulnerable to attack.

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • May 17, 2019

Google has discovered a security vulnerability so serious that it is telling users it will replace their Bluetooth Titan Security Keys for free. 

In a press release, the company said that there is a "misconfiguration in the Titan Security Keys' Bluetooth pairing protocols" that could potentially allow an attacker to gain access to your account  or device though some very specific circumstances.

One of the vulnerabilities described by Google allows an attacker within a 30-foot Bluetooth Low Energy range of your key when you press the button to authenticate a login, they could connect heir device to your security key. If they have your password, they could gain access to your account. 

Another way a bad actor could make their way into your account is when you pair your device for the first time. An attacker could "masquerade as your affected security key and connect to your device," and then do the same things on your device that other Bluetooth devices can do, like act as a keyboard or a mouse.

Google has been leading the charge in two-factor authentication (2FA) for a long time now. It has been pushing its Titan Security Keys as a more secure way to enable 2FA than simply an authentication app, or SMS. Google is not wrong about trying to add another layer of security, but there is going to be a higher level of scrutiny on any potential vulnerabilities. 

Google has made it know that if you have a "T1" or "T2" on your Titan Key, you are eligible for a replacement.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • The Future is Happening Outside the Cloud

    For years, the cloud has captivated the physical security industry. And for good reason. Remote access, elastic scalability and simplified maintenance reshaped how we think about deploying and managing systems. But as the number of cameras grows and resolutions push from HD to 4K and beyond, the cloud’s limits are becoming unavoidable. Bandwidth bottlenecks. Latency lags. Rising storage costs. These are not abstract concerns. Read Now

  • The Impact of Convergence Between IT and Physical Security

    For years, the worlds of physical security and information technology (IT) remained separate. While they shared common goals and interests, they often worked in silos. Read Now

  • Unlocking Trustworthy AI: Building Transparency in Security Governance

    In situations where AI supports important security tasks like leading investigations and detecting threats and anomalies, transparency is essential. When an incident occurs, investigators must trace the logic behind each automated response to confirm its validity or spot errors. Demanding interpretable AI turns opaque “black boxes” into accountable partners that enhance, rather than compromise, organizational defense. Read Now

  • Seeking Innovative Solutions

    Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance. You may recognize these terms as the “5 Phases” of a grieving process, but they could easily describe the phases one goes through before adopting any new or emerging innovation or technology, especially in a highly risk-averse industry like security. However, the desire for convenience in all aspects of modern life is finally beginning to turn the tide from old school hardware as the go-to towards more user-friendly, yet still secure, door solutions. Read Now

  • Where AI Meets Human Judgment

    Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days. It is driving business growth, shaping consumer experiences, and showing up in places most of us never imagined just a few years ago. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.