High-Speed Train Paralysed, Cause Unexpected

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - A 23-year-old student reportedly succeeded in paralysing the operations of Taiwan’s High Speed Rail (THSR). He carried out this act using only a radio device.

Local media reported that four trains were affected, though some accounts mentioned three trains stopping. All the trains were halted for 48 minutes.

The student, identified as Lin, executed his action by sounding the General Alarm. This alarm is typically activated by station staff using specialised equipment.

The sound of the alarm triggers emergency response protocols, including manually stopping the trains.

To commit the act, Lin used a software-defined radio (SDR) device purchased online. Tech Spot noted that the device was used to analyse THSR signals, download data to a computer, and decode TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked Radio) parameters.

He also programmed codes into a handheld radio to mimic legitimate voices. The alarm signal was transmitted from his home in Taichung to the THSRC control centre in Taoyuan.

THSR authorities detected signal cloning, as checks found no theft or misuse of official radios. The police conducted an investigation, including reviewing CCTV footage and TETRA network logs, before identifying the perpetrator.

Lin’s home and workplace were searched, and police seized a laptop, smartphone, SDR device, and several handheld radios. Additionally, a 21-year-old accomplice was found, who provided THSR parameters for the attack.

According to investigators, Lin had access to frequencies of several important institutions. Not only THSR, but also the New Taipei City Fire Department and the Taoyuan International Airport MRT line.

Lin was released on bail of NT$100,000 (55.3 million) after interrogation. His lawyer claims the transmission was unintentional.