Flipper Zero

The Flipper Zero is a versatile, open-source, multi-functional device designed for interaction with various access control systems, radio protocols, and electronic devices. It is popular among security enthusiasts for its wide range of capabilities. Below is an exploration of the attack surface of the Flipper Zero and detailed methods for various types of attacks it can perform:

1. Radio Frequency (RF) Attacks

• Overview: The Flipper Zero can transmit and receive signals on several RF frequencies, making it capable of interacting with devices like garage doors, gates, and car key fobs.
• Methods:
  • RF Sniffing: Capture and analyze RF signals from devices such as remote controls.
  • Signal Replay: Record an RF signal and replay it to execute the same action (e.g., opening a garage door).
  • Frequency Jamming: Disrupt RF communication by transmitting noise on the same frequency.

2. Infrared (IR) Attacks

• Overview: The device can send and receive IR signals, commonly used in TV remotes and other home electronics.
• Methods:
  • IR Learning: Capture the IR signal from a remote control and save it for later use.
  • IR Transmitting: Replay captured IR signals to control devices like TVs, air conditioners, or other IR-controlled appliances.
  • Custom Signal Transmission: Create custom IR signals to exploit vulnerabilities or control devices in unexpected ways.

3. RFID/NFC Attacks

• Overview: The Flipper Zero supports both Low-Frequency (125 kHz) and High-Frequency (13.56 MHz) RFID/NFC protocols.
• Methods:
  • Card Emulation: Emulate RFID or NFC cards (e.g., access cards) to gain entry to secured areas.
  • Tag Reading: Read data from RFID/NFC tags, including access credentials or personal information.
  • Tag Cloning: Duplicate RFID/NFC tags by copying their data onto a writable tag.
  • NFC Emulation: Act as an NFC device to interact with other NFC-enabled devices.

4. Sub-GHz Attacks

• Overview: The device can operate in sub-GHz frequencies (300-900 MHz), interacting with wireless protocols such as garage door openers, smart home devices, and IoT systems.
• Methods:
  • Signal Sniffing: Capture sub-GHz signals for analysis.
  • Replay Attacks: Replay captured signals to control devices remotely.
  • Protocol Manipulation: Experiment with and manipulate sub-GHz protocols to discover and exploit vulnerabilities.

5. GPIO Interface Attacks

• Overview: The Flipper Zero has General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins for interfacing with electronic circuits and devices.
• Methods:
  • Device Control: Send signals to control external devices like relays, LEDs, or motors.
  • Data Collection: Receive signals from sensors or other devices for data logging or monitoring.
  • Custom Circuit Interfacing: Connect to and control custom electronic projects or hardware hacks.

6. Bluetooth Attacks

• Overview: Though primarily used for device management and firmware updates, Bluetooth on Flipper Zero can be leveraged for wireless communication.
• Methods:
  • Pairing and Communication: Use Bluetooth for interacting with compatible devices.
  • Potential Exploits: Develop custom firmware to explore potential Bluetooth vulnerabilities or perform penetration testing.

7. USB HID Attacks

• Overview: The Flipper Zero can emulate a USB Human Interface Device (HID) such as a keyboard or mouse.
• Methods:
  • Keystroke Injection: Program the device to send pre-written keystrokes when plugged into a target computer, automating tasks or executing commands.
  • Script Execution: Use Ducky Script or similar languages to perform automated attacks like opening malicious websites, downloading malware, or executing system commands.

8. iButton (1-Wire) Attacks

• Overview: The Flipper Zero can read and emulate iButton (1-Wire) devices, commonly used for authentication and access control.
• Methods:
  • iButton Reading: Read the unique identifier from iButton devices.
  • iButton Emulation: Emulate the iButton to bypass access controls or authentication systems.

9. BadUSB Attacks

• Overview: The Flipper Zero can act as a USB device to execute HID-based attacks, similar to a USB Rubber Ducky.
• Methods:
  • Payload Execution: Load and execute pre-written scripts when plugged into a target device.
  • Automated Exploitation: Automate complex attack chains involving keystrokes, system commands, and network requests.

10. Additional Capabilities

• File Storage and Management: Store scripts, payloads, and data dumps for later use or analysis.
• Firmware Customization: Load custom firmware to unlock new features or enhance existing ones.
• Penetration Testing Tools: Use built-in or custom-developed tools for comprehensive security assessments.

Mitigation Techniques Against Flipper Zero Attacks

1. RF and IR Security: Use secure RF protocols with encryption and avoid static codes for remotes.
2. RFID/NFC Protections: Implement strong encryption, mutual authentication, and rolling codes for RFID/NFC systems.
3. USB Security: Disable or restrict USB ports on critical systems, use device whitelisting, and monitor for unusual HID activities.
4. Bluetooth Security: Use strong pairing methods, limit discoverability, and apply firmware updates to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
5. General Awareness: Educate users about the risks of unauthorized devices and encourage vigilant security practices.