Security analysis and improvement of USB technology

The Universal Serial Bus (USB) is one of the most commonly used standards for peripherals communications in the computer industry. Its features, such as cross-platform and hot-swapping, make USB the dominant choice of connections in computer systems including keyboards, printers, external storages, digital cameras, scanners, and smartphones. In addition to communication, USB is used to charge devices as well. The ubiquitous USB devices in daily lives hold high stake in their security. The USB was originally for ease of use for the user and currently there is a lack of security in for the USB. The USB currently has no security measures to protect the data communicating between devices on the Bus line. With the confidential and sensitivity of the data on the line; how can these devices maintain their integrity? This paper aims to analyze the USB protocol regarding vulnerabilities. To look into capturing the data on the bus line and proving security mechanics to protect the USB from both passive and active attacks. The paper will develop an addition to the USB protocol to account for a form of informational security including the encryption as well as authentication of data on the USB line.