The Eva Prokofiev Ethernet "Malware" Controversy
Introduction The cybersecurity community was recently stirred by claims made by Eva Prokofiev regarding alleged malware found in USB-to-Ethernet adapters. Her statements, which gained traction in the security field, prompted heated discussions, fact-checking, and thorough technical investigations. In this post, we will dissect the controversy, explore the technical details, and analyze the broader implications. The Origins of the Controversy Eva Prokofiev, a cybersecurity professional known for her research and publications, made a bold claim that certain USB-to-Ethernet dongles contained hidden malware. The assertion quickly spread across social media, raising concerns about hardware security, supply chain threats, and the reliability of consumer electronics. This claim was met with skepticism from many in the field, leading to an in-depth analysis by independent researchers and organizations. A detailed investigation published by Hackaday ( https://hackaday.com/2025/01/18/investigati...