New USB Type-C Protocol can protect devices from faulty cables

The USB Implementers Forum or the USB-IF, which is in charge of certifying standards-compliant USB devices, has announced a new USB Type-C Authentication Protocol that will help prevent non-compatible USB Type-C cable from damaging a connected device.

The authentication process happens the moment when a wired connection is made. When you connect any charger or cable that supports these specification with the host device, including tablet, laptop or smartphone, it will be able to verify the authenticity and compatibility of the connected accessory if it has been certified by USB-IF. The authentication information is transmitted using 128-bit encryption before the accessory will start charging the device or transferring data. 

Another advantage is that it is able to combat malware that uses USB to affect other devices. USB-IF said that the Authentican Specification can be easily implemented in accessories as it "references existing internationally-accepted cryptographic methods for certificate format, digital signing, hash and random number generation.".

The announcement comes after Amazon's recent crackdown on sellers, who were selling faulty USB Type-C cables at a cheaper price. 

Via