LEED:Excellence Earned

Drone Security ARM Linux Wireless Exploitation Cybersecurity Reverse Shell

Maldrone: Exploring the Dark Side of Aerial Autonomy

Inspired by the pioneering work of fb1h2s, Maldrone is an independent deep-dive into hijacking drone systems through persistent ARM-based backdoors. Originally crafted for Parrot AR drones, this research dissects vulnerabilities in drone control software and explores how malicious actors could override autopilot logic and gain wireless root control.

Core Innovation

Maldrone implants a persistent reverse shell into the drone’s ARM Linux OS, bypassing onboard control systems and injecting remote operator commands. Once triggered, it disables the autopilot module, intercepts sensor data, and establishes full payload interaction—allowing unauthorized remote access within wireless range.

Technical Stack

ARM Linux Parrot Drone Reverse TCP Backdoor Binary Sensor Interception

Acknowledgment

This project was independently recreated and extended based on original research by cybersecurity expert Rahul Sasi, who first introduced Maldrone as a concept. The goal is to promote awareness of UAV exploitation risks and advocate for stronger embedded drone security.