ISLAMABAD: Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has identified security vulnerabilities in wireless barcode scanners that could allow attackers to gain unauthorised access to warehouse computer systems, potentially disrupting logistics operations and e-commerce supply chains.
The findings emerged from a security assessment conducted by Kaspersky Security Services researchers, who examined potential cyberattack routes across warehouse infrastructure and identified weaknesses in barcode scanner communication systems.
According to the research, a vulnerability affecting a barcode scanner model from a major manufacturer could enable attackers to exploit wireless connections between handheld scanners and their base stations.
The researchers found that the absence of authentication between certain scanners and their base stations creates a potential entry point into operational technology (OT) networks used in warehouses.
In a typical warehouse environment, handheld barcode scanners communicate wirelessly with base stations connected to computers or business management systems. These devices are widely used for inventory management, order processing and shipment tracking.
Kaspersky explained that an attacker could potentially obtain a base station’s Bluetooth address by monitoring wireless traffic and then exploit the connection to transmit malicious commands.
The attack involves sending a malicious payload to the base station that imitates keyboard input. The connected computer may interpret these commands as legitimate keystrokes, potentially allowing unauthorised instructions to be executed.
Researchers said similar attack patterns were observed across devices from multiple vendors, raising concerns about the security of wireless equipment used in warehouse operations.
Successful exploitation could provide attackers with an initial foothold in a warehouse network, potentially exposing connected systems to further attacks.
Kaspersky also warned that comparable weaknesses could affect other warehouse equipment, including portable data terminals and thermal printers, creating possible routes into Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
The findings highlight cybersecurity risks facing the logistics industry as businesses increasingly depend on interconnected devices to manage inventory, fulfil orders and coordinate deliveries.
With global e-commerce sales exceeding $6 trillion, according to figures cited by Kaspersky, disruptions to warehouse operations could result in significant financial losses, delivery delays and reputational damage.
Commenting on the research, Sergey Sidorov, Head of Industrial Security Services at Kaspersky, said growing digital connectivity had expanded the potential attack surface across retail and logistics operations.
“Modern retail and logistics are profoundly digital, from enterprise-wide management platforms down to every device in a worker’s hands,” Sidorov said.
He warned that even relatively simple devices, such as barcode scanners, could become entry points for attacks capable of affecting wider business operations.
Sidorov urged warehouse operators and retailers to prioritise cybersecurity across all levels of their infrastructure rather than focusing exclusively on central computer systems.
To reduce exposure, Kaspersky recommended verifying new devices before connecting them to warehouse networks, disabling unused Bluetooth interfaces and implementing stronger authentication controls.
The company also advised businesses to separate critical warehouse systems from other network segments, install security updates promptly and restrict user account permissions to essential functions.
Regular security assessments and attack-path testing were also recommended to identify weaknesses before attackers could exploit them.
Kaspersky said its industrial cybersecurity assessment services could help organisations examine vulnerabilities in industrial control systems, operational technology networks and connected devices without interrupting routine operations.
The company has published further technical findings in a security audit of warehouse digital infrastructure on its Securelist research platform.
The research underscores the need for logistics operators to secure not only their central management platforms but also everyday connected devices that could provide attackers with access to critical warehouse systems.
