Malicious attackers can flood iPhone users with endless popups using a $170 tool
Devices like the Flipper Zero can send out pre-programmed radio signals that can cause an iPhone to open a disruptive interface, effectively being attacked into temporary uselessness.
Apple products like the iPhone have various communication tools like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and Ultra Wideband to make pairing and using accessories easier. These tools are what make systems like AirDrop and fast AirPods pairing possible.
According to a report from TechCrunch, a security researcher asking to be identified as Anthony described an iPhone attack that could be described as a denial-of-service. By using something called a Flipper Zero, false radio signals can be sent out to nearby devices like iPhones to render them effectively useless. Such an attack is possible for a number of products like Android, but the report focuses on iPhone. The attack is described as a mere annoyance to the user but could be used as a broader attack vector to push scams and other fraudulent pop-ups.