The Flipper Zero, a small portable device resembling a toy, has been gaining attention for its a dual nature as both an educational multi-tool and a potential security risk. While it has earned a reputation in some circles as a hacking device, the Flipper Zero’s primary function is as a legitimate tool for technology enthusiasts, penetration testers, and security researchers.
The device is equipped with a variety of built-in communication technologies, including a sub-1 GHz antenna, a 125 KHz RFID antenna, and an NFC module. These features allow it to interact with and analyze a wide range of everyday electronic systems. Users can clone and emulate signals from TV remotes, duplicate information from access cards, or store key fob data as a digital backup. The Flipper Zero can also be used as a “BadUSB” to automate tasks on a computer by running scripts. Its wireless features can be used for harmless, practical applications, such as scanning pet microchips or duplicating Amiibo figures for gaming.
Despite its beneficial uses, some of the device’s capabilities, such as its ability to interact with outdated garage door openers or send pop-up spam to nearby iPhones, have contributed to its controversial reputation. Experts and its creators consistently state that the device itself is legal. Its legality, much like any other tool, depends on how it is used. They emphasize that while the device can be used for malicious purposes, its core design is intended for ethical exploration and learning.
