As history has proven time and time again, nearly every new invention or advancement for the betterment of society and humanity comes with the potential of uses that are, shall we say, less than honorable. Never is this more true than with technology. And today we’ve got a great example of innovation that has been used by some with devious intentions: Flipper Zero.
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What is Flipper Zero?
Flipper Zero is a personal, portable device initially marketed for benign purposes like hardware exploration or debugging. It works by interacting and analyzing the signals and radio frequencies used by other electronic devices. It can do things like access control systems, read, copy, and emulate features such as RFID and NFC tags, as well as digital keys and radio remotes.
Is this sounding any warning bells in the minds of our automotive-minded readers yet? Well, read on…
It seems that this nifty Flipper Zero device has caught the attention of vehicle manufacturers now. Why? For its uncanny ability to unlock cars without a key fob. Yep, you read that right. The ultimate in digital hacking comes to the world of cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles. If your ride has a digital key, there’s a chance that the Flipper Zero knows how to mimic its secure communication.
How does the Flipper Zero act as a key fob?
It seems that the firmware of the Flipper Zero allows it to imitate the signal of a car’s key fob. This, in turn, creates a “shadow copy” of the original key. A fiddle with the Flipper, and poof, your tech-savvy neighbor can open your car doors at will. Not a great prospect, eh? But, for the time being there is one saving grace here: while the Flipper Zero does grant a potential criminal access to a vehicle, it does not allow the hacker to engage the engine. So, for the moment, even if breaking into a car is a crime within itself, the car itself can’t be started and stolen. That said, access to a vehicle could (and likely would) lead to theft of personal belongings or even tampering with the car’s systems.
Which vehicle makes have been breached by the Flipper Zero?
Major car manufacturers such as Kia, Hyundai, Ford, and Honda are among those affected by this vulnerability.
How are automakers reacting the the Flipper Zero?
While the automotive industry is more and more aware of such threats, appropriate solutions are not quite up to par with the level of the problem. Manufacturers are likely working on more advanced security systems that cannot be as easily hacked by random devices that anyone can purchase online for $199. So it stands to reason, that for the time being, the onus falls on vehicle owners to be vigilant and take extra precautions.
How do I stay protected from Flipper Zero car key hacks?
Here are some immediate steps you can take to protect your vehicle:
- Awareness: Stay informed about the latest methods used by car thieves – this can help you anticipate and prevent potential security breaches.
- Physical Security: Invest in additional security measures like steering wheel locks or tracking systems that make your car less attractive to thieves.
- Firmware Updates: Stay updated with any firmware patches or updates released by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Habit Adjustments: Avoid leaving valuables in your car and be cautious of where you park, especially overnight.
So there are the basics of this hacking device and what you can do to try and protect your vehicle. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for a far more definitive solution from the automotive industry ASAP…
