Can Flipper Zero Bypass your Access Control System? (2024)

Did you know that an estimated 70% of security breaches involve access control systems? Modern access control systems have significantly evolved to protect the integrity of data centers and businesses. While traditional access control systems still exist, their space is shrinking day by day. Access control systems regulate who can enter or exit a building, room, or area.

These systems can enhance your business operations’ security, convenience, and efficiency. However, with the rise of technology, not all access control systems are safe from cyber-attacks. Devices like Flipper Zero can compromise the security of your access control systems and cause financial and physical damage to your business.

In this blog post, we will understand what a Flipper Zero is, how someone can Flipper Zero bypass your access control system using Flipper Zero, and some important tips to safeguard your access control systems from Flipper Zero Hacking.

Flipper Zero has been identified as a potential threat to IoT cybersecurity. Recent statistics suggest that an average of 5,400 attacks are committed monthly against IoT devices and that over seven million data records are compromised daily.

Yes, a Flipper Zero can potentially compromise your access control system’s integrity by copying someone’s access card credentials. A Flipper Zero is like a universal remote control that can talk to many digital devices around us. Imagine it as a magic key that can open some digital locks. Whether your access control system is vulnerable depends on its technology.

Tools like Flipper Zero can easily bypass systems that use older technology. Newer access control systems with advanced technology are generally safe from such exploits. If your access control system is outdated, it is at risk of being compromised by a Flipper Zero. Upgrading to a modern, advanced system can provide better protection against such threats.

Flipper Zero is a powerful hacking device that can exploit several vulnerabilities in access control systems.

Here are some of the techniques a hacker can use to bypass access control into your business/site:

Many businesses use RFID cards for access control. The Flipper Zero can read the radio signals emitted by these cards and clone them, creating a duplicate card that can be used to gain unauthorized access. This is particularly concerning since RFID technology is widely used in 80% of access systems.

Prevention:

• Use RFID systems with strong encryption protocols.
• Add an extra layer of security, such as biometric verification.
• Change RFID card credentials periodically to prevent unauthorized use.

Key fobs are standard for both vehicle and building access. The Flipper Zero can intercept the signals these fobs send to unlock doors or start engines. By capturing and replaying these signals, the device can effectively mimic the original key fob, allowing unauthorized entry.

Prevention:

• Ensure that key fobs use rolling codes that change with each use.
• Keep key fobs in signal-blocking pouches when not in use.
• Invest in advanced key fob systems with enhanced security features.

Older access control systems often use weak encryption methods that can be easily cracked. The Flipper Zero can perform brute-force attacks to break these weak encryptions, gaining access to restricted areas. About 50% of older systems are vulnerable to this type of attack.

Prevention:

• Replace outdated access control systems with those that use strong encryption.
• Keep your access control system’s firmware up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.
• Use complex and regularly updated passwords for all access points.

Some advanced access control systems use multiple frequencies to enhance security. However, the Flipper Zero can also operate on various frequencies, bypassing these systems by mimicking authorized signals. This makes it a threat even to more sophisticated setups.

Prevention:

• Implement systems frequently changing frequencies in a pattern known only to authorized devices.
• Continuously monitor and analyze frequency usage for anomalies.
• Combine multi-frequency systems with other security measures like biometric verification.

The Flipper Zero can sniff out wireless signals used by access control systems, such as wireless doorbells, garage doors, or smart locks. It can then replay these captured signals to gain unauthorized access.

Prevention:

• Ensure that all wireless signals are encrypted.
• Use systems that require mutual authentication between devices.
• Keep all wireless systems up to date with the latest security patches.

Many access control systems rely on software that can have vulnerabilities. Flipper Zero can exploit these software bugs to gain unauthorized access or turn off the security system altogether.

Prevention:

• Regularly audit and test your access control software for vulnerabilities.
• Make sure that all software updates and patches are implemented as soon as they are available.
• Deploy systems that can detect and alert suspicious activities.

A flipper zero is one of the bypass tool that look harmless but can do real damage to your site/business. Though it seems harmless, it can be used for malicious activities that risk your business security system.

Let’s break down some of these potential threats:

One of the most effective ways to protect your business is to upgrade your access control system. Modern access control systems offer enhanced encryption and authentication methods that are much harder to bypass.

• Identify weaknesses in your existing access control system.
• Look for systems with strong encryption and robust security features.
• Ensure the system includes anti-cloning measures.
• Install the new system and train staff on how to use the upgraded system effectively.

You should avoid relying solely on a single type of credential, such as RFID cards or key fobs. Instead, use a combination of credentials, such as biometric verification (fingerprints, facial recognition), PIN codes, and smart cards.

• Implement PIN codes as an additional security layer.
• Regularly update and rotate PIN codes to ensure security.
• Use multiple types of credentials for an extra layer of protection (e.g., smart card + biometric verification).

Awareness is a key component of security. Try to educate your staff and employees about the potential threats posed by devices like the Flipper Zero. You should conduct training sessions on how these tools work and what signs to look out for.

• Conduct sessions to inform employees about access control threats.
• Distribute guides and brochures on recognizing and preventing security breaches.
• Raise a culture where employees report any suspicious activities immediately.

Implement and enforce strict access control policies. Define clear rules about who has access to what areas and ensure that the team follows these rules.

• Establish different access levels for various areas of your business.
• Adjust policies to respond to new threats and changes in business operations.
• Keep track of access logs and ensure that employees adhere to the policies.

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your access control system. It requires users to provide two or more verification methods to gain access. These could include something only they know (a password) or biometric verification (like fingerprint scanning or facial recognition).

• Activate Multi-Factor Authentication on your access control systems.
• Select a combination of methods, such as password + biometric verification.
• Review and update Multi-Factor Authentication settings to maintain a high level of security.

In addition to electronic security measures, physical barriers can significantly enhance the security of the sensitive areas of your site/business. You should use sturdy doors, locks, and barriers to protect sensitive areas.

• Determine which areas require additional physical protection.
• Use strong doors, locks, and other physical barriers.
• Install turnstiles and security gates that require electronic authorization and physical interaction to enhance security.

If you’re concerned about the security threats posed by tools like Flipper Zero, it may be time to upgrade to a more robust access control system. By staying informed and proactive, businesses can ensure they’re safe and ahead of the curve. A Flipper Zero can easily exploit weaknesses in access control systems, granting unwanted access to your business and causing financial and personal exposure.

Spotter Security has your back if you are searching for reliable access control systems that resist tools like Flipper Zero to secure your business in Canada. With over 20 years of experience in the security industry, Spotter Security knows the ins and outs of securing a business site from Flipper Zero hacking.

From security camera installation to access control to alarm systems and live monitoring, Spotter Security keeps you confident about your site security while providing 24/7 technical support should you ever encounter problems.