As technology and digital services advance, so do the threats and risks of cyber-attacks, but how bad could this new device whose digital face is a cute dolphin be?
The new Flipper Zero has been featured in news stories and videos of alleged hackers accused of being able to control some external devices and even have the ability to jam signals from car keys for easy access and theft with these small devices.
The Flipper Zero, although on the outside it looks like a child's toy (dubbed by some as the ‘Tamagotchi for hackers’), is a multi-functional handheld device, capable of interacting with different devices, signals and frequencies.
Its main function and purpose is to perform security tests, so that trainees can learn more about these systems and perform similar types of tests. Its interface is guided by a virtual pet, which is a dolphin.
With the Flipper Zero you can read, copy and emulate RFID and NFC cards, and it has a range of 300 to 928 MHz, which would allow it to clone access cards or contactless payment cards; it can emulate digital keys, you can use it as a remote control for TVs or other systems and it can even create and run your own applications.
While its purpose is not malicious, some countries such as Canada have banned its sale in the country because, according to authorities, it could facilitate car theft (among other things), a crime that is unfortunately on the rise in the North American country. Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne states: “We are banning the importation, sale and use of consumer hacking devices, like flippers, used to commit these crimes.”, in the beginning of this year.
Just a few weeks ago, Flipper Zero announced a new update to its systems, with improvements in app access, data upload speed, bluetooth connectivity, battery usage and more, which makes enthusiasts happy, but terrifies some authorities.
If you're interested in learning more about the Flipper Zero or even buying one, visit their official website and check if they have availability for your country. You can find the Flipper Zero for €165.00 here, you can add one or two accessories (not essential for use), however the device does require a MicroSD card for proper operation, which is not included in the purchase.
Do you think the device is harmless or do you think we'll see how some of these authorities were right?
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