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Exploding USB Sticks – Schneier on Security

Exploding USB sticks have become a worrying reality for many people. In the port city of Guayaquil, journalist Lenin Artieda of the Ecuavisa private TV station received an envelope containing a pen drive which exploded when he inserted it into a computer. Artieda sustained slight injuries to one hand and his face, and according to police official Xavier Chango, the USB drive sent to Artieda could have been loaded with RDX, a military-type explosive.

The RDX explosive is commonly used by militaries, including the US’s, and it can be used alone as a base charge for detonators or mixed with other explosives, such as TNT. Chango noted that only half of the RDX was activated in the USB drive that Artieda plugged in, which likely saved him from more severe harm.

The idea of hiding explosives in USB sticks is similar to the assassination by cell phone that was seen in the past. It is important to remain vigilant and aware of any packages received that may contain potential explosives.

Overall, the use of explosives hidden in USB sticks is a concerning development, particularly for people in the media or who receive packages from unknown sources. It is important to be aware of the potential dangers and take necessary steps to avoid any potential harm.

Key Points:
-Exploding USB sticks can be loaded with RDX, a military-type explosive.
-The RDX explosive is commonly used by militaries and can be used as a base charge for detonators.
-The idea of hiding explosives in USB sticks is similar to assassination by cell phone.
-It is important to remain vigilant and aware of any packages received that may contain potential explosives.

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