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How to safely copy files to replacement computer?


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Guest BadBIOSVictim
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In November 2011, my linux boxes were infected with BadBIOS. I purchased over a dozen replacement computers and returned, sold or discarded almost all of them due to infecting them when I copy my personal files.

 

I burned my personal files to DVDs. Later, I learned that BadBIOS infects the burning of DVDs.

 

Using the write protection switch on the SD card did not offer any protection. Though the switch is physical, it is merely a software flag.

 

Last year, I purchased a Cool Gear USB 3.0 to IDE/SATA adapter with Write-Protect. I returned it because it had software. I was concerned BadBIOS would infect Cool Gear hard drive write blocker's software.

 

I purchased two Kanguru blu flashdrives with write protection. BadBIOS infects the microcode of USB devices. badBIOS analysis of Weapons grade Malware

 

I am concerned that even with the write protection switch on, its infected firmware or driver will infect my replacement computer.

 

This month I discarded my BadBIOS infected Asus 1015PE netbook and HP Compaq Presario V2000. I need to copy my personal files from an infected SD card and a Kanguru blu flashdrive to my replacement laptop, a Toshiba Portege.

 

I purchased a Digital Intelligence USB media card write blocker. SD cards have a controller which can be exploited.

https://media.ccc.de/browse/congress...ie_-_xobs.html

 

I don't know if the media card writer has a controller or if the write protection switch is any different from the write protection switch on a SD card.

 

I am considering paying $300 for a Tableau USB blocker. I asked Digital intelligence if they are vulnerable to firmware rootkits. Their response:

 

"We sent an email to Guidance/Tableau inquiring about a firmware rootkit on the SD card altering the firmware on a T8. They have responded stating that the rootkit would have to be specifically written for the SD card reader in order to modify it. As far as it altering the firmware on our USB 3 card reader, our Vice President says that it's firmware cannot be altered at all."

 

I don't want to pay $300 for a Tableau and only be able to use it once, at most, before it is infected. Likewise, with a new media card blocker.

 

How to transfer files safely?

 

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