In a concerning development for iPhone users, a small yet powerful device called Flipper Zero has emerged, capable of crashing iPhones simply by being in close proximity to them. The only defense against this devious gadget is to disable Bluetooth completely, warns cybersecurity experts.

The Flipper Zero, a versatile device designed to exploit weaknesses in short-range wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth, WiFi, RFID, and NFC, poses a significant threat to a wide array of devices, including smartphones, hotel keys, garage doors, and TVs.

While the device has been around since 2020, recent reports from Ars Technica suggest it has resurfaced due to its ability to unleash an extremely bothersome hack – bombarding Bluetooth-enabled iPhones (and potentially other smartphones) with an overwhelming number of pop-ups, rendering the devices unusable and eventually causing them to shut down.

One unfortunate victim of this attack, Jeroen van der Ham, a cybersecurity expert from the University of Twente in the Netherlands, shared his experience of having his iPhone hacked while commuting via train. He described how his phone would receive constant pop-ups, ultimately leading to its reboot.

Curiously, the Flipper Zero is entirely legal and can be purchased for a modest $169. Marketed as a "portable multi-tool for pentesters" – referring to cybersecurity experts who assess and enhance the security of computer systems through penetration testing – the device exhibits a rather playful aesthetic, resembling a Gameboy with a pixelated cyberpunk dolphin mascot, reminiscent of the movie Johnny Mnemonic.

While the ability to exploit wireless communications is not new, the widespread availability of an inexpensive device that requires minimal expertise marks a new chapter in the field. This accessibility provides amateur hackers, colloquially known as "script kiddies," a new weapon or perhaps a plaything.

Dan Guido, CEO of security firm Trail of Bits, commented on the situation, stating, "The jig is up: software radios have made previously inaccessible attacks available to many more people than before, and work on them will continue."

This incident also raises questions about the security protocols implemented by the companies behind these vulnerable devices. If a gimmicky device like Flipper Zero can bypass their systems, it suggests a need for stronger security measures. Perhaps this incident will push these companies to enhance their technology's defenses.

As of now, Apple has not announced any plans to address this vulnerability in a future iOS update. Reports also suggest that Android and Windows devices may be susceptible to similar attacks.

To safeguard against this threat, experts recommend disabling Bluetooth on iPhones through the settings menu rather than the Control Center. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the risk of falling victim to Flipper Zero's disruptive capabilities.

In an era where wireless connectivity has become an integral part of our daily lives, it becomes increasingly important for consumers and companies alike to prioritize robust security measures. The emergence of devices like Flipper Zero serves as a wakeup call, reminding us of the vulnerabilities inherent in our wireless communication systems and pushing us to strive for stronger protections in the future.