This Device Is Causing Havoc On Updated iPhones By Sending Them Into A Never-Ending Loop

In an unexpected twist, iPhones across the Netherlands reportedly fell victim to a disruptive gadget, Flipper Zero, according to security researcher Jeroen van der Ham.

What Happened: As per a report, Van der Ham experienced a constant flood of pop-ups on his iPhone during his commute two weeks ago. The same issue resurfaced in his afternoon commute, impacting not just his device but those of fellow passengers as well.

The culprit, Van der Ham discovered, was a fellow passenger wielding a Flipper Zero device. This gadget, on the market since 2020, has the ability to send Bluetooth pairing requests to iPhones within its radio frequency range and can interact with various wireless protocols, including RFID, NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and radio.

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Historically, such hacking attempts would require specialized hardware and skills. However, Flipper Zero provides similar functionalities at an affordable $200, making it more accessible and user-friendly. The device makers tout it as a “portable multi-tool for pen-testers and geeks”, apt for hacking radio protocols, cloning electronic key cards, and even serving as a universal TV remote.

Commenting on the issue, Dan Guido, CEO of security firm Trail of Bits, noted that software radios like Flipper Zero have opened up previously inaccessible avenues of attack to a broader population. “Work on them will continue,” he said, adding that such technology “democratizes some formerly complex RF [radio frequency] hacking into the hands of mere mortals.”

Why It Matters: The incident underscores the escalating cybersecurity threats posed by gadgets like Flipper Zero. Despite its seemingly innocuous nature, Flipper Zero’s ability to disrupt various devices within its range highlights the growing need for robust security measures. As technology evolves, the onus is on manufacturers and security firms alike to stay abreast of these emerging threats and devise effective countermeasures.

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