Wiktor Wise
Electric scooters from companies like Bird have become increasingly popular in cities around the world, but they have also become a target for hackers and vandals. In this discussion about hacking Bird electric scooters, we will explore the different methods people have used to modify and steal these scooters, as well as the companies' responses to these issues. From simple tricks like lifting the scooter off the ground to high-tech Bluetooth hacks, we will delve into the world of scooter hacking and discover the potential consequences for both individuals and companies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of hacking kit | $30 |
| Kit origin | China |
| Type of kit | Plug-and-play |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Scooter type | Xiaomi MIJIA M365 |
| Scooter cost | $400 |
| Hacking method | Swap motherboard |
| Scooter security | Ineffective alarm, vulnerable Bluetooth connection |
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What You'll Learn
Using a $30 plug-and-play conversion kit
The $30 plug-and-play conversion kit for a Bird scooter is a simple way to modify the scooter and disable Bird's recovery and payment features. The kit, which ships from China, is designed for the Xiaomi MIJIA M365 scooter, which is the model deployed by Bird with added electronics to connect to the Internet.
The conversion process involves swapping out the Bird motherboard for a new one, which avoids modifying or accessing any Bird code. This simple hardware swap is a loophole that allows users to legally acquire and modify Bird scooters for personal use.
The first step is to purchase the conversion kit, which can be found online for around $30. The kit includes the necessary hardware to perform the modification. The only additional tool required is a screwdriver with the right security bits, which can be purchased on eBay or other online marketplaces.
Once the kit and the correct screwdriver are acquired, the modification process can begin. The Bird scooter needs to be opened up, and the motherboard needs to be located. The new motherboard from the conversion kit will then be swapped in, and the scooter will be powered by the new hardware.
The final step is to close up the scooter and test out the new configuration. The scooter should now be functioning as a personal scooter, free from Bird's recovery and payment features. This process is a simple and cost-effective way to acquire an electric scooter, and it has sparked interest in the hacking community as an adventurous and innovative project.
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Covering the speaker to muffle the security alarm
The first step is to locate the speaker on the scooter. This is usually found near the handlebar or stem area, but it can also be located under the seat or in a scooter pouch. Once the speaker has been located, the next step is to choose an appropriate covering material.
Soft and pliable materials such as duct tape, cloth, or foam are ideal for muffling the speaker. Avoid using hard or sharp objects that could damage the speaker or scooter body. Cut or shape the material to fit over the speaker, ensuring that it covers the entire surface.
Securely attach the covering material to the scooter, ensuring that it remains in place even when the scooter is in motion. This can be done with adhesives, ties, or any other method that firmly holds the covering in place. It is important to ensure that the covering does not interfere with any other scooter components or affect the overall operation of the scooter.
By covering the speaker, the alarm sound will be significantly muffled, reducing its effectiveness in alerting others of a potential theft. However, it is important to note that this method may not work for all scooters, especially those with multiple speakers or advanced security systems. Additionally, muffling the alarm may not disable other security features, such as GPS tracking or immobilizer systems, which can still facilitate the recovery of the scooter.
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Cutting brake lines
To cut the brake lines of a Bird electric scooter, one would need to gain access to the brake lines, which are usually located inside the stem of the scooter. The exact location of the brake lines can vary depending on the model of the scooter. In the past, Bird scooters with thin-stemmed models had exposed brake lines, making them more susceptible to vandalism.
The tools required for cutting brake lines include wire cutters and pliers. In previous incidents of scooter vandalism, the perpetrator was reported to be carrying these tools along with wearing a glove to conceal their fingerprints.
- Locate the brake lines: Find the stem of the scooter and identify the location of the brake lines. As mentioned earlier, the brake lines are usually housed within the stem, and older models with thin stems may have exposed brake lines.
- Gain access to the brake lines: This might involve removing certain parts of the scooter, such as the deck plate, to expose the internal wiring and brake lines. Refer to specific Bird scooter models for detailed instructions on accessing the brake lines.
- Cut the brake lines: Using wire cutters or similar tools, cut the brake lines. This will sever the connection between the brake lever and the braking mechanism, rendering the scooter's brakes inoperable.
- Conceal the vandalism: To avoid detection, the vandal might cover the QR code or other identifying features of the scooter with a sticker or paint. This makes it harder to identify and track the damaged scooter.
It is important to reiterate that cutting brake lines is highly dangerous, illegal, and can lead to severe consequences, including criminal charges and civil liabilities. This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be used for illegal activities.
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Lifting the scooter off the ground to cancel a ride
Lifting a Bird electric scooter off the ground will not cancel a ride. To end a ride on a Bird scooter, you must follow the proper procedure.
Firstly, you must review the local parking rules and verify that you are in an approved parking location. The scooter must not obstruct handicapped accessibility or pedestrian or vehicle traffic. You can find local parking regulations in the in-app tutorial, which is accessible when attempting to ride a vehicle.
Then, deploy the kickstand and lock the scooter. To lock the scooter, slide the left arrow to the right of the screen in the "Slide to ride" section. Then, scan the QR code to lock the wheels. The scooter will chirp if you move it while locked.
Note that you must have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled to lock and unlock the scooter.
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Removing the scooter's motherboard
Removing the motherboard of a Bird electric scooter is a simple process that can be done with a few tools and some basic knowledge of electronics. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove the motherboard:
Locate the Motherboard: The motherboard of a Bird electric scooter is typically located underneath the scooter, near the battery and other electronic components. It is usually covered by a protective casing or cover.
Gather the Necessary Tools: You will need a set of screwdrivers, including both standard and security bit sizes. A standard screwdriver set will have the necessary bits to remove most screws on the scooter. However, as mentioned earlier, finding a screwdriver with the right security bits can be challenging, but online platforms like eBay offer a wide range of options.
Power Off the Scooter: Before beginning any work on the scooter, ensure that it is powered off and unplugged from any power source. This step is crucial for safety reasons and to avoid damaging the scooter's electronic components.
Remove the Casing: Carefully remove the protective casing or cover that surrounds the motherboard. This step may require unscrewing some screws and gently prying open the casing. Be careful not to damage any nearby components or cables.
Locate the Motherboard Connections: The motherboard is connected to various components, including the battery, motor, and sensors. Identify the cables and connectors attached to the motherboard and carefully disconnect them. Label each cable or make note of their locations to ensure proper reconnection if needed.
Remove the Motherboard: Once all the connections have been disconnected, gently lift the motherboard out of its housing. Be cautious not to damage any surrounding components or leave behind any loose screws or fragments.
It is important to note that removing the motherboard from a Bird electric scooter may void the warranty and could potentially impact the scooter's functionality if not performed correctly. Additionally, it is always recommended to consult a professional or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any steps or procedures.
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Frequently asked questions
You can purchase a $30 conversion kit from China, which is a plug-and-play way to disable the Bird recovery and payment features.
One of the simplest ways to hack a Bird scooter is to slap a sticker on the QR code used to unlock the scooter, effectively disabling it.
By popping out the SIM card or disconnecting the modem, you can avoid GPS tracking.
By syncing with a Bird and then pulling it off the ground, you can cancel a ride without turning off the motor.
