After Israel’s Attack: Can Devices Be Hacked and Detonated?

18 September 2024 / Rıdvan Atmaca

After Israel’s Attack: Can Devices Be Hacked and Detonated?

It has been reported that thousands of people were injured in Israel’s attack on Lebanon’s Hezbollah, where pagers exploded like bombs. So, could our mobile phones also be turned into ticking time bombs?

Israel’s Attack on Hezbollah: The Role of Technology in Modern Warfare

Recent days have seen Lebanon shaken by a sophisticated attack by Israel targeting Hezbollah. During the assault, pagers used by Hezbollah members were detonated remotely, demonstrating a new form of technologically-driven warfare. Reports indicate that 12 people were killed, over 2,800 injured, and the technological details behind the attack have sparked significant curiosity.

Israel has long employed advanced technology in its operations against adversaries. However, this latest attack took on a different dimension with the use of seemingly outdated pagers. So, how were these devices detonated remotely? Could our personal devices—such as mobile phones, computers, or radios—be turned into bombs?

On September 17, 2024, multiple explosions occurred simultaneously in Lebanon, targeting different regions, including Beirut. Pagers used by Hezbollah members began exploding after receiving a message. These explosions were caused by small explosives embedded in the pagers and remotely activated. Hezbollah had adopted pagers instead of mobile phones for security reasons, but Israel reportedly infiltrated these devices and installed explosives activated by specific signals.

Security experts believe the explosives were embedded during the manufacturing or transportation of the devices. The explosions only affected individuals whose devices were powered on, showcasing the precise planning of the attack.

Remote Detonation: How Is It Possible?

Devices equipped with explosives can be remotely detonated using a signal or message. The process involves connecting the explosive to a circuit within the device that responds to external signals. Similar methods were employed in Israel’s attack, where the explosives were triggered by a message seemingly sent from Hezbollah leadership.

For ordinary users, however, such risks are extremely rare. Turning everyday devices like phones or laptops into explosives typically requires advanced technology and targeting specific individuals or groups.

Can Personal Devices Be Remotely Exploded?

The most pressing question for many is whether personal devices—like smartphones, computers, or radios—can be hacked and detonated remotely. In theory, this is possible, but the process is extraordinarily complex. Devices would need to be physically modified with explosives, a challenging operation often requiring access during manufacturing or distribution.

Examples from History

In 1996, Hamas operative Yahya Ayyash was killed by a small explosive placed in his mobile phone. Similarly, small amounts of explosives can be placed in laptops or phones and activated remotely. However, such attacks require precise planning and significant resources.

Cybersecurity and Remote Interference

Electronic devices are vulnerable to cyberattacks due to their digital structure. Malicious software, viruses, or direct exploitation of system vulnerabilities can compromise devices. However, remotely detonating devices requires physical explosives or intervention, making it much more complicated than a typical cyberattack.

Conclusion

Israel’s sophisticated attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon highlights the power of technology in modern warfare. Even outdated communication tools can become deadly weapons with careful planning and technological intervention.

For ordinary users, the likelihood of such attacks is extremely low. However, the rapidly evolving technological landscape underscores the importance of robust security measures.