USB-C protocol update warns users of dodgy cables

After it became clear that USB Type-C cables are non standard compliant and can be so dangerous that may burn connected devices, the USB 3.0 Promoter Group has announced it will adopt a new "USB Type-C Authentication specification."

With the new spec, USB Type-C-equipped devices can use 128-bit encryption to verify if a USB Type-C cable, charger or accessory has been certified or not. When connecting to those devices, machines like computers or phones will be able to read that descriptor and choose to connect, or not, depending on policies.

This will happen immediately, before it's allowed to draw power or transfer data. And on top of that, users will be able to set up their device with rules for what is and isn't allowed from USB devices — charging only, for example, or only accept data from USB drives marked as trusted by your IT department.

"USB is well-established as the favored choice for connecting and charging devices," USB 3.0 Promoter Group Chairman Brad Saunders said in a release. "In support of the growing USB Type-C ecosystem, we anticipated the need for a solution extending the integrity of the USB interface. The new USB Type-C Authentication protocol equips product OEMs with the proper tools to defend against 'bad' USB cables, devices and non-compliant USB Chargers."

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