DJI scrambles to fix drone ‘cyber vulnerability,’ adds offline data mode for security
Chinese drone maker DJI is rolling out a new “local data mode” in an effort to bulk up the security of its hardware in the wake of a US Army memo that claims DJI’s products contain unspecified vulnerabilities. In the memo, officials from the US Navy and US Army Research Lab advised the discontinuation of DJI drone use by military personnel.
“DJI Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) products are the most widlely used non-program of record commercial off-the-shelf UAS employed by the army,” the department’s memo explains. “Due to the increased awareness of cyber vulnerabilities associated with DJI products, it is directed that the US Army halt use of all DJI products.”
DJI’s response to the US Army’s warning has been one of shock, noting that the company is “surprised and disappointed” by the restrictions imposed on its drones, and noted that they “were not consulted” during the testing process or after the decision was made.
