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[Chozon1]

I've been told, according to both security book and teacher, that it's practically impossible to steal data from a fiber-optic line (like how you can break into a coax cable line).

I believe this to be bunkus. Your thoughts?

[Deepfreeze32]

I dislike hiking in the cold I prefer it to be warm.

Favorite book?

I can't choose one, but I love Dune, Lord of the Rings, and quite a few others.

I've been told, according to both security book and teacher, that it's practically impossible to steal data from a fiber-optic line (like how you can break into a coax cable line).

I believe this to be bunkus. Your thoughts?

It's true that you can't jack a fiber line like you can a coax. It is possible, but difficult. The reason for this is that fiber requires precisely-aligned optics to transmit data. The act of creating a fiber junction like you would with coax requires the signal to be interrupted, while coax splices and work without any hitches. Unlike electricity, light doesn't like to travel in non-linear patterns. So making a splitter is a very technical and difficult process.

The other problem is that unlike coax, fiber is resistant to receiving and sending interference. This means you can't get some data simply by breaching the shielding.

So not impossible, no. But not easy at all.

[Chozon1]

I understand that, but (assuming there was no funky encryption and you had the money as well as the know-how and tools for working with for fiber), wouldn't it be possible to build a receiver/repeater of sorts that would take the data in one side and then put it out on the other? Wouldn't have to worry about filtering or not having the cables aligned right, since it would basically be a regenerator that also captured the data.

Is it wrong I try to figure out ways of stealing data in security class?

[Deepfreeze32]

yes, but it would require a precision insertion system. You'd need to find a way to place it on the line without causing a signal interruption. That's why it's difficult, lol.

And no, not really. The whole point of being a security professional is to think like a hacker, so you can prevent them from getting in. It's part of the fun, actually.

[Chozon1]

I don't think you would need to find a way to avoid interruption; just a way to make an interruption seem unsuspicious. Like routine maintenance, unscheduled maintenance, power failures, perhaps? I imagine, knowing nothing about the installation of fiber, that with practice it could be done within a few hours.

The grumps?

[Deepfreeze32]

Maybe, I'm not familiar enough with that kind of maintenance. XD

I has them now. They not fun.

[Chozon1]

Nor I; but I wanted to ask the question rather than blithely accept the "impenetrability" of fiber lines.

Have you ever considered just belting someone across the face to rid you of your grumps?

[Deepfreeze32]

Yes, but I feel like that may not be the best way to get rid of them...

[mebmatt]

Favorite TV show?

[Deepfreeze32]

Oooh. That's a tough one. Probably any Star Trek, Babylon 5, any Stargate, Battlestar Galactica, Firefly, Doctor Who, The IT Crowd, or Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

I can't choose just one. XD

[mebmatt]

Do you like to hunt?

[Deepfreeze32]

I only hunt for bargains...

[mebmatt]

Favorite flavor of ice cream?

[Deepfreeze32]

Mint Chocolate Chip. So good.

[ArchAngel]

If you could join the crew of a spaceship or starship of sorts, which one would it be and why?