Have you come across the Flipper Zero Hacking Device making waves lately? Originally established in Russia in 2020, the company relocated following the outbreak of the war. Presently, it asserts that it has severed all ties with Russia and anticipates generating $80 million in revenue from its products this year. Notably, it has already sold nearly $5 million worth of products as Kickstarter pre-orders, and last year’s sales reached $25 million.
What exactly does Flipper Zero offer?
It is a portable gamified multi-tool designed to cater to individuals interested in cybersecurity. Whether you’re a penetration tester, a curious enthusiast, or a student, this device serves you well. Admittedly, it could also be used for less virtuous purposes. Its functionalities encompass a wide range of capabilities, including the manipulation of wireless devices (such as garage openers), RFID card systems, remote keyless systems, key fobs, and access barriers. Essentially, you can program it to simulate various lock systems.
How effective is the device?
Remarkably, the device is highly effective. Despite not being an expert hacker, people managed to open garages, activate elevators, and unlock other secured systems that should be well beyond their hacking skill level. On one hand, it is a fascinating toy for experimentation, shedding light on the alarming level of insecurity prevalent in our surroundings. On the other hand, I can’t help but question whether it’s wise to have over 300,000 hacking devices circulating freely, enabling the interception of car key signals and the opening of gates and other entrances, including, oddly enough, Tesla charge ports.
While the device is in need of a software update, some people are cautious about connecting any USB device to their computer, especially to the one shipped from Moscow that is specifically designed for hacking. Under such circumstances, people are considering using an air-gapped computer, but unfortunately, it’s not easily available.
However, it seems that updating the device from an iOS mobile app is a feasible option. The company also emphasizes that the firmware is open source and can be inspected by anyone.
Managing Challenges
Undoubtedly, building this start-up amidst a war and numerous sanctions must have posed significant challenges. Nonetheless, the company has managed to navigate through these obstacles. In an Instagram post, they assured their customers that “Current events will not affect the Flipper Zero production in any way, and all ordered devices will be shipped to backers and pre-order customers, although logistical disruptions in the CIS countries may cause some delays.”
Flipper Devices, as a company, has made it clear that their team comprises both Ukrainians and Russians. They have publicly denounced the ongoing “special military operation” and emphasized that none of their team members support it.
Latest Development:
A spokesperson from the company wishes to clarify that Flipper Devices is not a Russian company. The CEO is Ukrainian, and more than 10% of the team members are Ukrainian as well. The company operates in a distributed manner and is currently establishing its headquarters in London. Furthermore, they emphasize that Flipper Devices does not ship products to Russia, refrain from hiring in Russia, and have made efforts to relocate all their employees out of the country. Some employees, who possess Russian passports, may visit Russia for personal reasons or to spend time with their families.
