VoltSchemer attacks use wireless chargers to inject voice commands, fry phones

Researchers from the University of Florida and CertiK demonstrate “VoltSchemer,” an attack that injects engineered voltage noise into wireless chargers to corrupt charger–phone communications, enabling sustained overcharging/overheating, destruction of nearby items (temperatures up to 536°F/280°C), and limited injection of inaudible voice commands into smartphone assistants; the team tested nine commercial chargers, showed practical attack setups using an interposing voltage-manipulation device, discussed limitations and mitigations, and disclosed findings to vendors.