Security News
Researchers are prototyping multi-segment shapeshifter drones, which are "The precursors to flying squid-bots." As usual, you can also use this squid post to talk about the security stories in the news that I haven't covered.
"Seeing the drone in the field of view, make eye contact with it," the video instructs. Soldiers should then raise their arms and signal they're ready to follow.
Modified off-the-shelf drones have been found carrying wireless network-intrusion kit in a very unlikely place. The idea of using consumer-oriented drones for hacking has been explored over the past decade at security conferences like Black Hat 2016, in both the US and in Europe.
Russia's military has praised civilian grade Chinese-made drones and robots for having performed well on the battlefield, leading their manufacturers to point out the equipment is not intended or sold for military purposes. "When assembling the M-81, Chinese technologies are used, the cost is 1 million rubles. The company plans to launch production in Russia," reported Russian tech media source iXBT. In late July, Unitree tweeted that it "Opposes any form of refit and behavior that is harmful or potentially harmful for human beings" and that it only manufactures and sells civilian products.
Seems it’s now common to sneak contraband into prisons with a drone.
The popular protocol for radio controlled aircraft called ExpressLRS can be hacked in only a few steps, according to a bulletin published last week. The vulnerability in the protocol is tied to the fact some of the information sent over via over-the-air packets is link data that a third-party can use to hijack the connection between drone operator and drone.
In a first for a major Chinese tech company, drone-maker DJI Technologies announced on Tuesday that it will temporarily suspend business in both Russia and Ukraine. "DJI is internally reassessing compliance requirements in various jurisdictions. Pending the current review, DJI will temporarily suspend all business activities in Russia and Ukraine. We are engaging with customers, partners and other stakeholders regarding the temporary suspension of business operations in the affected territories," declared DJI in a canned statement.
The RAF has scored its first air-to-air "Kill" - where an aircraft downs an enemy aircraft - for almost 40 years after shooting down a drone over Syria. "The engagement took place on 14 December when the drone activity was detected above the Al Tanf Coalition base in Syria," said the MoD. "RAF Typhoons conducting routine patrols in the area were tasked to investigate."
We’ve now had an (unsuccessful) assassination attempt by explosive-laden drones.
South Korea has this week announced two new weapons: grenade-launching drones for its military, and anti-ransomware software for businesses. The nation's Defense Acquisition Program Administration has revealed that in 2022 South Korea will test grenade-launching drones that can be remotely controlled over a range of two kilometres, carrying gunpowder-filled 40mm shells.