An explanation of Flipper Zero

In this video, TechTarget editor Tommy Everson talks about what Flipper Zero can and can't do.

Flipper Zero -- the hottest new toy for hackers.

Flipper Zero is a portable hacking tool reminiscent of Tamagotchis of the late '90s. It recently went viral on TikTok, featured in various prank videos where it appears to do things like turn off electronic fast-food menus or change gas prices on digital displays.

However, are Flipper Zero's capabilities really this powerful, or are these videos exaggerations? Concerns are growing about the potential for the device to disrupt businesses and access sensitive information.

Flipper Zero is marketed to ethical hackers and "geeks" alike, according to the brand -- but, retailing under $200, inevitably made its way into the hands of script kiddies. Luckily though, Flipper Zero doesn't actually have the power to manipulate every wireless device in its path as seen in the viral videos. Rather, it can read the signals that are emitted from these devices.

For example, the device can read the body temperature of a micro-chipped animal, read and record the signal from a garage door opener and even clone a building entry card.

These capabilities have stoked security concerns, especially when it comes to the hacking potential in debit and credit cards. While it's true that the device can detect these cards when they're nearby, it doesn't have the ability to copy their information or make transactions. And most cards today are equipped with security and authentication features that Flipper Zero cannot overcome anyway.

This means with a bit of rudimentary cybersecurity knowledge, hackers can use Flipper Zero to cause mischief, like emulating arcade cards to play games for free. But experts have assured that the device does not pose a serious threat. In fact, hacking devices with even more advanced capabilities have been around for decades.

An upside to a device like this is that it can expose vulnerabilities in existing electronic systems and guide efforts to improve a system's security. What are your thoughts on Flipper Zero? Let us know in the comments, and remember to like and subscribe, too.

Tommy Everson is an assistant editor for video content at TechTarget. He assists in content creation for TechTarget's YouTube channel and TikTok page.