Tightening security data: DJI makes its move

That didn’t take long.

DJI, the Chinese-based company, took little time to address the gathering noise over cyber security concerns.

At the beginning of August, the U.S. Army called for troops to cease and desist use of DJI drones, equipment and cameras for any operations.

The Army’s announcement seemed to catch DJI unaware.

In the last few days, DJI announced that it will accelerate the release of a new feature, Local Data Mode.  This feature will be a part of the DJI controller app. When selected, Local Data Mode will allow pilots to disconnect from the internet during flights.

The update releases at the end of September.

“We are creating Local Data Mode to address the needs of our enterprise customers, including public and private organizations that are using DJI technology to perform sensitive operations around the world,” said Brendan Schulman, DJI Vice President of Policy and Legal Affairs. “DJI is committed to protecting the privacy of its customers’ photos, videos and flight logs. Local Data Mode will provide added assurances for customers with heightened data security needs.”

This feature is designed to stop internet traffic to and from DJI’s flight control application. This would make it “impossible” for the craft to communicate any flight log data, photos or videos with DJI servers. It would also prevent any accidental syncing with DJI servers.

DJI believes Local Data Mode offers users some level of data management. DJI hopes this feature will help alleviate privacy and security concerns for sensitive operations.

Drawback of Local Data Mode

Disconnecting from the internet means the application will not receive continuous updates. As such, operators lose the features that makes flight safer and easier, including: updates of maps, newly issued flight restrictions, software updates, and geo-fencing information.

However, it is up to each operator to decide whether the operation requires Local Data Mode for privacy or security reasons. And, at least now operators have an option.

Local Data Mode may not be available in all countries depending on specific regulations.

DJI made its move. Only time will tell if this is enough to diminish the concerns of enterprise and government entities.