Kobo e-reader users discovered they could have their credentials hacked

A user shared his disappointment while using a Kobo e-reader. The device’s e-ink system has indeed caused a phenomenon of image retention and, more worryingly, password persistence.

Anyone who enjoys reading knows how annoying it can be when someone is reading over their shoulder. It’s even more annoying when you use an e-reader on public transport during rush hour. Apart from the lack of etiquette, this “shoulder hack” phenomenon is potentially dangerous when you enter usernames and passwords to access your online accounts.

This is the bitter experience that a user had when he tested the latest Kobo e-reader, the Libra Color, which he had just purchased. He noticed not only image retention and screen artifacts, but also the persistence of his passwords.

Persistent passwords and ghosting on Kobo e-readers

The phenomenon of image retention, ghost images or, worse, persistent passwords is not new on certain screens, especially those with e-ink technology. But the way some users discovered it on Kobo e-readers is original to say the least. At least, it provides a good reminder of the precautions for using our mobile devices in public.

This is the experience that a user had when he had just purchased the latest Libra Color e-reader from Kobo. While testing it, he had the somewhat disconcerting surprise of the persistence of the keys composing his password on the screen of his device, as he shows in a video published on his X.com account.

Other users of different models have followed suit, reporting issues with afterimages or screen artifacts.

But the issues with persistent passwords and ghosting aren’t exclusive to Kobo e-readers. These phenomena can occur on all devices equipped with electronic ink (e-ink) screens due to their intrinsic characteristics. E-ink displays are designed to consume less power and provide a comfortable, paper-like reading experience. However, they have a lower refresh rate compared to LCD or OLED screens, which can cause images or text to persist, especially after displaying static content for a long time.

This is why it is recommended to be vigilant when entering passwords on these devices, as indicated by e-reader users, who refer to the “shoulder hack”, or the fact that in public, we should look more behind our shoulders to see if someone is reading or watching what we are doing, and in the process, stealing our personal information.

The favorite e-reader among more and more readers

But these inconveniences do not put off e-reader owners. In fact, in most cases, a device refresh removes ghost images and persistent passwords.
And that’s good, because e-readers have, over time, established a place of choice among readers, both new and experienced. And there is something to be said for it.

With their ability to store thousands of digital books in a lightweight and compact device, the e-reader offers many advantages, firstly compared to traditional books. It is much lighter and more compact than printed books, and allows you not only to take your favorite work with you, but also the rest of your entire library.

Most e-readers have a large storage capacity, between 8 and 64 GB, allowing you to store thousands of digital books.
They use electronic ink displays, or e-ink, which simulate the texture of paper and reduce eye strain compared to the backlit screens of tablets and smartphones. And for greater reading comfort, you can adjust the font size and style, screen contrast, and even audio playback for visually impaired or dyslexic people.

In terms of autonomy, on average, an e-reader can last several weeks on a single charge, which makes it an ideal choice for long reading sessions and thus avoids draining the battery of a smartphone or tablet too quickly. In addition to Wi-Fi, 4G or 5G functionality, some e-readers allow note-taking, word searches, synchronization with other devices, and even include dictionaries.

Finally, an e-reader can help reduce paper and energy consumption linked to the production and distribution of printed media, for a more eco-responsible choice.

Source : Android Police