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Comment on The new MacBook's single port comes with a security risk

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This is written like it is a novel situation. Smart phones have had this problem almost since inception.

Would be nice to see a hardware switch to deactivate the pins that aren't needed for power.

That switch sounds like a tech' support nightmare. Even WiFi switches are a massive PITA that are almost more trouble than they're worth.

I'd suggest that if people want safe USB that they just buy a USB "condom" (i.e. an adapter that goes between the power and port, and disconnects the data wires).

Although does USB-C use any of the data pins to determine if it is safe to transmit power? I just ask because Apple's USB implementation sends different amount of power based on how the device responds across several non-power related pins.

Although does USB-C use any of the data pins to determine if it is safe to transmit power?

Power Delivery 2.0 signals via Vbus (the 5V line) and additionally via CC when using the Type C connector. PD2 is specified for Type A, Type B and Type C connectors.

Syncstop claims to work with any mobile device win/apple/android/blackberry. Anyone tried syncstop with apple devices? [edit] corrected typo

The difference is that smart phones (at least the iPhone) have a "trust this computer?" prompt. It is unclear whether the new Macbook will.

Edit: This will presumably disable any usage of the non-power lines.

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