Hacking gadgets allow tech enthusiasts, security researchers, and others to test devices and systems for vulnerabilities. However, many of these tools are controversial due to their potential for misuse. This article will provide an overview of 11 risky yet powerful hacking gadgets that have gained popularity in 2023.
1. Flipper Zero
The Flipper Zero is a versatile hacking multitool shaped like an innocent-looking car key fob. Despite its small size, this device packs quite a punch. According to cybersecurity expert Joseph Steinberg, "The Flipper Zero does far more than most people realize an electronic device could do."
With built-in storage, a powerful processor, and modular design, the Flipper Zero can be used for RFID and NFC hacking, infrared communication, Bluetooth exploits, and more. Using various add-on modules, the Flipper Zero provides capabilities for capturing wireless keystrokes, cloning access cards, remotely controlling devices, and exploring IoT vulnerabilities.
While incredibly versatile for security analysis, the Flipper Zero could also be misused for malicious purposes. As expert hacker Samy Kamkar warns, “It’s an incredibly powerful device. It scares me.” The Flipper Zero is currently available for pre-order from Kickstarter and AliExpress.
2. Sgnl Smartwatch
The Sgnl smartwatch stands out with its unique design featuring a flexible strap that wraps around the wrist and hand. This wearable includes a fitness tracker, music controls, messaging notifications, and a novel directional speaker.
By placing their hand next to their ear, the Sgnl user can transform their hand and arm into a sound tunnel for making and receiving calls. This provides a futuristic, low-profile alternative to traditional smartwatches and earbuds.
However, the Sgnl could also be used for more nefarious communication. As cybersecurity professional Geoff Golberg explains, “A device like Sgnl may have legitimate uses. But crudely turning one’s hand and forearm into a handset raises some immediate personal privacy and public policy concerns.”
3. Wall Sound Listener
The Wall Sound Listener is a disturbing eavesdropping tool consisting of a parabolic dish and amplifier attached to a stethoscope-style headset. As described by home security expert Ross Shafer, “The device easily picks up sound through walls, allowing the user to listen in on conversations in the next room.”
By simply placing the catcher against a wall, floor, door, or window, the user can amplify and listen to sounds coming from the other side. The Wall Sound Listener is currently available from many online retailers and spy shops.
While marketed as a “fun spy gadget,” many experts have raised concerns over potential criminal use. As technical engineer Damien Wolf states, “Eavesdropping gadgets like the Wall Sound Listener dangerously intrude on personal privacy. Their legality varies by jurisdiction, but we strongly caution against casually buying or using such devices.”
4. Ubertooth One
The Ubertooth One is a sophisticated hacking tool focused on exploring Bluetooth vulnerabilities. As explained by mobile security researcher Mike Kuketz, “This compact USB device can monitor, record, and analyze wireless Bluetooth traffic, explore protocol weaknesses, mimic devices, and even decode encrypted packets.”
With open-source software and an active development community, the Ubertooth One allows researchers to dive deep into Bluetooth technology and security. However, as with many hacking tools, the Ubertooth One could also be used by malicious actors.
Cybersecurity professor Alan Butler warns, “While a valuable research tool for those working in security, it does lower the barrier to more harmful Bluetooth hacking.” The Ubertooth One is currently available on Amazon and AliExpress for around $100.
5. USB Rubber Ducky
The USB Rubber Ducky has become an infamous cybersecurity gadget and “elite hacker’s best friend.” In the form of a standard USB flash drive, this device is programmed to pose as a keyboard after plugging into a computer. As cyber attack expert Eric Taylor describes:
“After quickly and quietly injecting its payloads, the USB Rubber Ducky can automate an endless variety of hacking tasks, from dropping malware and stealing data to spreading fake news or issuing commands that trigger sabotage.”
The USB Rubber Ducky has been used by both security professionals testing systems as well as criminals executing technologically sophisticated attacks. Cheap versions of the USB Rubber Ducky are sold online, often without clear ethical guidance on safe usage.
6. WiFi Pineapple
The WiFi Pineapple is a small, portable device used to test and secure wireless networks. As network security engineer Julia Thompson explains:
“The WiFi Pineapple allows full control over both rogue access points and wireless client connections. It can be quickly configured for tricks like phishing login pages, stealing secret data, capturing usernames and passwords, or selectively blocking and altering content.”
With a powerful processor, extensive monitoring capabilities, and easy-to-use touchscreen interface, the WiFi Pineapple Mark VII is the latest version of a device that has become popular in cybersecurity circles. However, non-experts using the WiFi Pineapple irresponsibly could lead to serious legal consequences.
7. HackRF One
The HackRF One is a software-defined radio platform that can transmit or receive signals across a massive range from 1 MHz to 6 GHz. As wireless communications expert Sam Paller describes:
“The HackRF One allows nearly endless customization and experimentation with radio protocols and signals. It’s like having a fully programmable, versatile pocket-sized radio and antenna array.”
Uses for the HackRF One include testing IoT devices, exploring wireless security, amateur radio projects, signal analysis, and cryptocurrency transactions via radio. However, as with many SDR platforms, the HackRF One could also be used for interfering with signals illegally. The device retails between $300-$400.
8. USB Killer
The USB Killer lives up to its menacing name. As hardware hacker Ray Santos explains, “The USB Killer is a unique gadget that can instantly disable almost any computer or electronic device in a fraction of a second.”
Shaped like a standard USB plug, the USB Killer contains circuitry designed to deliver power surges that overwhelm systems and fry hardware components and processors. This forces devices into critical meltdown, causing permanent damage. The USB Killer can disable tablets, laptops, desktop PCs, printers, TVs, photo frames, car radios, and more.
Both black hat and white hat hackers use the USB Killer and similar devices to test how systems react to power spikes and hardware failures. However, intentionally destroying devices without permission remains both unethical and illegal.
9. Hardware Keylogger
Hardware keyloggers provide easy monitoring of all keystrokes typed on a keyboard. As digital privacy researcher Iris Atkins describes:
“Hardware keyloggers simply plug in between a computer and keyboard to stealthily record each and every keypress. The logged data gets written to built-in flash storage, allowing future retrieval of usernames, passwords, messages, emails typed, and essentially anything.”
Various cheap hardware keyloggers are for sale globally, most designed to avoid detection by average users and anti-virus tools. While arguably useful to parents monitoring children’s computer usage, hardware keyloggers fundamentally undermine computer security and personal privacy.
10. Proxmark3 RDV2 RFID Reader
The Proxmark3 RDV2 is an extremely versatile RFID/NFC testing tool the size of a smartphone. Security engineer Nova Williams explains:
“The PM3 allows you to read, write, emulate, clone, and manipulate nearly every proximity card, smart card, or NFC device. It lets you analyze proprietary RFID systems and embedded firmware to discover vulnerabilities, reverse engineer protocols, and customize attacks.”
The Proxmark3 has become an indispensable tool for hacking contactless systems among penetration testers and researchers. However, the same capabilities could also enable crimes like identity theft, payment fraud, and unauthorized system access. The Proxmark3 retails for approximately $600.
11. Hacking Elite Cable
Finally, the Hacking Elite Cable may seem like an innocent HDMI, USB, or Ethernet cable. However, it’s designed specifically to provide covert access to cable TV channels, streaming platforms, and other paid content. As digital piracy expert Vince Utrera describes:
“With electronics loaded into standard cable housings, the Hacking Elite Cable acts as a filter to decrypt signals, unlock channels or region-restricted platforms, and steal streaming service access without paying subscription fees.”
The Hacking Elite Cable provides an easy method to access cable content illegally, though obviously unethically. Advanced versions even split signals allowing users to share unauthorized feeds with multiple connected devices.