Coin-sized device can hack a Boeing 737’s Flight Management Computer, mess with takeoff weights, or even divert an aircraft — gadget connects to an easily accessible port that overrides commands from the pilots, uses in-flight Wi-Fi
A coin-sized device can hack a Boeing 737's flight management computer via an easily accessible diagnostic port and in-flight Wi-Fi, enabling attackers to override pilot commands or alter critical data like takeoff weights.
Security researchers have discovered a coin-sized device that can hack a Boeing 737's Flight Management Computer through in-flight Wi-Fi. The gadget connects to an easily accessible diagnostic port in the avionics bay, hidden behind a protective dust cover. Once attached, it can override pilot commands, feeding erroneous data such as incorrect takeoff weights or even diverting the aircraft. The exploit was identified by researchers who warn the port's accessibility makes it a critical vulnerability.