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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Question About TPM Autodecrypt (mander.xyz)

submitted 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

19 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I have setup my fedora to use LUKS encryoted partitions. But entering two passwords gets quite tiring, as I shutdown my laptop quite often to get the benefit of LUKS (I am assuming nothing is encrypted when in suspend, please correctme if I am wrong)

I am thinking about setting up TPM autodecrypt. However, I was wondering does the decryption happen on boot or after I login?

If it happens on boot, then it seems like the benefit is pretty limited compare to a unencrypted drive. Since the attacker can simply boot my laptop and get the unecrypted drive.

Am I missing something here? I was wondering is there a way for me to enter my password once and unlock everything, from disk to gnome keyring?

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[–] [email protected] 5 points 1 year ago (1 children)

The data on disk doesn't get decrypted at any time. Even if they boot it, they would still need to log in somehow.

There are attacks through DMA or extracting the decryption key from RAM, but those are not going to happen by a casual laptop thief.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

...or extracting the decryption key from RAM.

Moral of the story:

Always shutdown the computer when you are not using it, kids.

[–] [email protected] 7 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I see your decryption key extraction and offer you a 5 dollar wrench.

The wrench also comes with DMA (direct mechanical assault), RDMA (remote direct mechanical assault via throwing), and DDIO (deals damage if opposing) capabilities. It's a real NSA bargain!

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 year ago (2 children)

But if the key is fully wrench-safe inside the TPM. You do not know it, you can not get convinced to give it up -- even after repeated wrench use.

Of course the recovery key that typically goes with it and you logging password is not wrench safe, so that does not protect the system fully, while getting you a matching set of broken kneecaps.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago

Pretty sure the NSA doesn't want the recovery key, they want the information the recovery key is protecting.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 year ago

you don't know it, you can not get convinced to give it up

It's ok that you don't know it, just log into your computer please and we'll take care of setting a new key. Or you can have a conversation with Mr Wrench again.