Hackers heckle drive-in diners

A diet high in fast foods increases a person's risk of obesity

US police are hunting hackers who tapped into the radio at a fast food drive-through and insulted customers.

The offenders are reportedly tapping into the wireless frequency at the Burger King restaurant in Troy, Michigan, AP news agency reported.

One customer who placed an order was told: "You don't need a couple of Whoppers. You are too fat. Pull ahead."

Police said the pranksters could face misdemeanour charges carrying up to three months in jail plus fines.

Insults

Troy policeman Gerry Scherlink said the hackers told another customer who had placed an order for Coca-Cola: "We don't have Coke."

When the customer asked what they had, the hacker said: "We don't have anything. Pull ahead."

Police suspect that calls are being made using a radio transmitter or walkie-talkie near the restaurant.

The owner of the affected Burger King franchise, Tony Versace, said: "We apologise to our customers who've been insulted by the use of this drive-through speaker."

Police said the culprits were probably watching and broadcasting from close range and could be charged with misdemeanour if caught.