This video shows how AI can read the radio waves coming from an HDMI cable to mimic what's on screen

A new study reveals that AI can analyze the electromagnetic radiation from HDMI cables to recreate videos shown on the connected screen. The technology, demonstrated by Psalter on X, uses TempestSDR to capture and almost reproduce the image on another device, as the cable generates an electromagnetic field that can be read. While the quality isn't perfect, AI-based DeepTempest significantly improves the process, reducing errors by over 60%.

The research team employed an antenna to pick up the leakage, a HackRF radio to capture it, and software to transform it back into an image. Although the captured content remains blurry, recognizable elements still emerge. The video showcasing this technique highlights the potential risks, with the effectiveness of the interception depending on factors like shielding, distance, and interference.

While a wired connection still leaves a wireless trace, the AI-enhanced method offers a more clear and readable result. The development of DeepTempest by Federico Larroca, a researcher at the University of the Republic in Montevideo, Uruguay, represents a significant advancement in this field. The researchers emphasize that while the technology poses a potential threat, it is not yet time to panic.

Proper shielding, filtering, and masking techniques recommended by manufacturers can help mitigate these risks.