Is the ‘Flipper Zero’ a Security Threat? Queensland Officials Sound Alarm

Queensland authorities are cautioning residents about the potential risks posed by the “Flipper Zero,” a multi-functional device capable of interacting with access control systems.


Read: Public Warned Of Rental Scam Following Incident In Aspley


Police have seized one of these devices in Boondall. Whilst currently legal in Australia and easily purchased online, concerns have been raised about its potential for misuse by some. Amazon has already removed the device from sale, citing its ‘card skimming’ capabilities.

Queensland Superintendent Robert Fleischerurged community members to keep keys, cards, and electronic devices secured, as the gadget needs close proximity to scan codes.

Photo credit: Flipper Zero/Facebook

According to Superintendent Fleischer, the Flipper Zero has an appearance resembling a child’s handheld gaming device, yet it possesses the ability to take the place of certain controllers and interface with phones, computers, and even garage door systems.

What is Flipper Zero?

The Flipper Zero is a device that can remotely control various functions such as media players, computer keyboards, mouse cursors, and presentation slides. Specifically, it can serve as a presentation remote control.  

The Flipper Zero was initially unveiled in August 2020 through a Kickstarter crowdfunding drive that amassed $4.8 million in backing. Following the successful campaign, the first units of the device rolled out to supporters around 18 months later.

Photo credit: Flipper Zero/Facebook

It has the capability to replace certain HID (human interface device) controllers. This enables it to interact with phones and computers. 

Additionally, it can function as a keyboard for a computer, controlling media playback on the computer or operating as a camera remote for a phone. The Flipper Zero can also substitute as a computer mouse. Notably, it can even control the TikTok app on a phone.

Flipper’s Response to Issues

Photo credit: Flipper Zero/Facebook

In February 2024, the Canadian government revealed intentions to prohibit the sale of the Flipper Zero device within the country, citing concerns over its alleged role in vehicle theft.

In their blog, Flipper noted that “Flipper Zero operates at the same frequencies as remote controls.” They said, “Yes, Flipper Zero can indeed receive and decode radio signals. However, intercepting the radio signal from the remote control won’t be enough to unlock a modern car because they use encryption to securely provide access.”

Whilst acknowledging the device’s ability to intercept radio frequencies used by remote controls, the makers clarified that simply receiving those signals would be insufficient to gain entry to modern encrypted vehicle systems designed with secure access in mind.


Read: Community Alert: Theft of Vehicle and Wheelchair from Retirement Village, Aspley


As the compact hacking tool becomes more accessible, the public is being advised to remain vigilant about properly securing personal devices and access points. Police are monitoring the situation closely.

Published 4-April-2024

Retirees Attend QPS Session on Avoiding Online Scams at Geebung RSL

A group of retirees from the northside recently gained more knowledge in avoiding online scams through the information session conducted by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) at the Geebung RSL. 



Attended by the members of the North Brisbane Association of Independent Retirees, the session took place on 18 March and covered topics relating to email scams and cybersecurity. 

According to QPS, it’s always wise to never open emails or click on documents and attachments from senders that they are not familiar with. If unsure, retirees can always call up the bank or the agency supposedly sending the email, and verify if it’s legitimate.

Scamwatch Australia said that older people are more vulnerable to scams because of their accumulated wealth. These scammers usually target social media and dating sites, where there are many vulnerable divorcees, widows and widowers. Retirees are also often less savvy when it comes to computers or the internet, hence they are easy targets of scams. 

Another indication of a potential scam is “poor spelling or grammar.” The tone of the message also sounds urgent, often asking the person to “act now.” 

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Some of the most common scams include unexpected lottery wins, rebates and inheritance. In this pandemic, at least 6,120 online scams were reported with over $8.4 million in losses in the country.



Meanwhile, Geebung RSL was recently recognised as Best Licensed Club – 3rd Place – at the Keno and Club Queensland Awards for 2021.

Geebung RSL Board, Management & Staff are proud to advise our 14,000 service and social members of the recognition the Club received last night at the Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence,” the management said.

“The Award is a tribute to our amazing staff and loyal club members who support the club from week to week and during challenging times such as the numerous COVID business closures over the past 12 months.

“The Award importantly, pays recognition to our hardworking Sub Branch administration and volunteer welfare and support advocates who take care of the needs of our local veterans each and every day.”