Instructions for secure drone flying

Using drones requires you to pay attention to information security, too, to ensure safe flying and privacy protection.

This page details a few basic things about information security that you should know if you own a drone or plan on getting one.

Acquiring a drone

Find out the following before making a purchase decision:

What data does the device store in its operation and where is the data stored?

A drone may store, for example, photos, flight details and location data that are possibly stored in the manufacturer’s cloud service. In the case of foreign manufacturers, the data may end up outside the EU.
This should be taken into account, especially when the use of a drone requires the creation of a user account in the manufacturer's service for the use of the device.

How long does the manufacturer provide updates for the device?

Larger drone manufacturers offer software updates for devices to improve, among other things, device functionality, usability, and security.

Can an outsider take control of a drone during flight?

More advanced devices use an encrypted connection between the drone and the controller, making it much more difficult to take control of the device.

Pay attention to the following when using a drone:

Set a strong password for the drone and related software. Remember to change any default passwords.
Make sure the software of the drone is updated.
Use only the software and applications provided by the manufacturer.
If the drone is controlled by a phone, please make sure the software of the phone is also updated and secure. Check out the NCSC-FI guide Protect your information: Tips for ensuring the security of your mobile phone (External link) (External link).
If the drone is using a Wi-Fi network, make sure that the network you are using is secure. Never connect a drone or a device used to control a drone to an open Wi-Fi network.

When flying a drone, you must take into account factors that may cause interference, such as power lines. Some drone models have a GPS receiver, which contributes to ensuring the safe return or landing of the drone when the control connection is lost. However, the function should be turned on and the possible return location setting checked.
Pay attention to possible areas where aerial photography and flying are prohibited (External link) and other restrictions.
Calibrate the GPS of the device before flying

Change the passwords of the device and applications regularly.
Ensure the device and software is updated regularly. Update your phone as well, if you use it for controlling the drone.
Do not connect the device to an open network.
Set the possible return location for the drone before flying it in the case of losing the control connection.
Always charge the battery of the drone before flying.
Store the drone safely when you are not using it, so that unauthorized persons cannot tamper with it.