Flipper Zero Tutorial: A Beginner's Guide to Hacking and SDR

The Flipper Zero is a versatile multi-tool aimed at cybersecurity professionals and hobbyists alike. Described by its creators as a 'cyber buddy,' it's designed to aid in physical penetration testing and introduce users to the world of software-defined radio (SDR). This tutorial will guide you through the basics, from initial setup to practical hacking projects.

Before diving into projects, let's set up your Flipper Zero. **Initial Setup:** 1. **MicroSD Card:** Ensure you have a high-quality microSD card (minimum 4GB) formatted to FAT filesystem. Insert it with the chip side upwards. 2. **Charging:** Charge your Flipper using a USB power bank or computer USB port. 3. **Power On:** Hold the back button for three seconds to power it on. **Firmware Update:** Updating the firmware is crucial. You can do this via the mobile app or the qFlipper desktop app. 1. **Choose Firmware Version:** * **Stable Release:** Recommended for most users due to extensive testing. * **Release Candidate:** More up-to-date but may contain bugs. * **Development Release:** Bleeding-edge, updated frequently, and potentially unstable. 2. **Update Process (qFlipper):** * Download qFlipper from the official Flipper website for your OS (Linux, Windows, macOS). * Connect your Flipper Zero to your computer via USB-C. * Open qFlipper and click 'Advanced controls' (spanner icon). * Select your desired 'Firmware update channel' and click 'Update.' * The device will restart and display a success message upon completion. **Custom Firmware:** The Flipper Zero supports custom firmware, allowing for expanded capabilities. Xtreme firmware is a popular option for interface and protocol customization. However, use third-party firmware with caution, as it may be unstable and potentially damage your device.

Navigating the Flipper Zero's interface is straightforward. **Keys and Menus:** * **Main Button (Center of D-pad):** Used for affirmative actions like entering menus. * **Back Button (Backward Arrow):** Used to reject actions or return from a menu. * **Direction Pad:** Provides navigational aid. To access functionalities like RFID, press the main button, use the up/down buttons to select '125 kHz RFID,' and press the main button again to access the sub-menu. **Key Functionalities:** * **RFID (Radio Frequency Identification):** Used in access control systems. * **Sub-1 GHz Range:** Controls wireless devices like garage doors and IoT sensors. Note: Modern car remotes use rolling-code encryption, making them incompatible. * **NFC (Near Field Communication):** Used in higher-frequency proximity cards and contactless payment systems. * **Bluetooth:** Connects to third-party devices and smartphones. * **Infrared:** Controls TVs, air conditioners, and stereos. * **iButton (1-Wire keys):** Found on door access controls. * **USB Type-C:** Used for charging, flashing, and BadUSB attacks. * **Expandability (GPIO):** Supports expansion boards like WiFi dev boards and SubGHz range expanders.

Now that you're familiar with the Flipper Zero, let's explore some hacking projects. Remember to use these tools responsibly and ethically.

RFID access cards are commonly used to replace physical keys. This project demonstrates how to clone an RFID card. **What is RFID Technology?** RFID uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags attached to objects. These tags contain stored information and can be passive (powered by the reader) or active (having their own power source). **How to Clone an RFID Access Card:** 1. **Enter the Main Menu:** Press the main button and select '125 kHz RFID.' 2. **Read the Card:** Place the access card under the Flipper Zero and press the main button to 'Read' the card. The device will display the card type. 3. **Save, Emulate, or Write:** * **Save:** Saves the RFID key values for later use. * **Emulate:** Replays the RFID data from the Flipper Zero. * **Write:** Clones the RFID data onto another RFID card or fob. 4. **Write to New Card (if applicable):** Select 'Write,' place the new card or fob near the Flipper Zero, and wait for the 'Successfully written' message.

This project demonstrates the BadUSB capabilities of the Flipper Zero using DuckyScripts. **What is BadUSB/KBUSB?** BadUSB exploits the trust computers have in USB devices, particularly keyboards, to execute malicious code. It was popularized by Hak5's USB Rubber Ducky, which used DuckyScript, a simple programming language for automation payloads. **How to Perform the Action:** 1. **Prepare the DuckyScript:** Download or create a DuckyScript payload and copy it to the 'badusb' folder on your microSD card. 2. **Insert the MicroSD Card:** Safely eject the card from your computer and re-insert it into the Flipper Zero. 3. **Connect to Target Computer:** Connect the Flipper Zero to the target computer via USB. 4. **Select and Execute Payload:** * Press the main button and select 'Bad USB.' * Choose the desired payload from the list. * Press the main button to execute the payload. With physical access, BadUSB can quickly compromise a computer and perform actions that would otherwise take significant time.

This project demonstrates how to clone a garage door opener using the Flipper Zero's Sub-GHz capabilities. **What is Sub-GHz?** Sub-GHz refers to wireless communication frequencies below 1 GHz, used for long-range communication with less power. **How to Perform the Action:** 1. **Frequency Analysis:** * Enter the main menu and select 'Sub-GHz.' * Select 'Frequency Analyzer.' * Press the button on the garage door opener and note the emitted frequency. 2. **Read RAW:** * Press the back button and select 'Read RAW.' * Select 'Config' and configure the frequency you noted earlier. 3. **Record the Signal:** * Press the back key to return to the frequency recorder. * Press the main button to start recording. * Press the garage door button again. 4. **Save or Send:** * 'Save' the signal for later use. * 'Send' the signal immediately to the receiver. Note: Newer garage door openers may use rolling code encryption, which is incompatible with this method.

The Flipper Zero is intended for educational and experimental purposes only. Users are responsible for ensuring their activities comply with local laws and are conducted ethically. Misusing the Flipper Zero for unauthorized access or malicious activities is illegal and unethical.

The Flipper Zero is a valuable tool for exploring software-defined radio and understanding various technologies. While some perceive it as a device for nefarious purposes, it serves as an accessible and engaging introduction to SDR and experimentation. Like any tool, its use depends on the user's intentions. If you're interested in learning more about SDR and hacking, the Flipper Zero is a great starting point.

This section addresses common questions about the Flipper Zero, such as its ability to unlock cars, jam WiFi, legal status in different countries, and alternatives. (Refer to the original article for specific answers to these questions.)