Building a USB Rubber Ducky was one of the most eye-opening cybersecurity experiments I’ve done. I used payload examples from the Hak5 GitHub repository, specifically from the prank payloads section. These scripts demonstrate how a simple USB device, disguised as a keyboard, can automatically run commands on a target machine the moment it’s plugged in. It doesn’t rely on autorun or installation permissions—it simply acts as a human typing at lightning speed, delivering keystrokes to execute scripts.
To create my own version, I used a Raspberry Pi Pico W as the core of the device. I also purchased a USB-A to USB adapter from Amazon to ensure compatibility with most computers, and 3D printed a compact case to give the build a clean, professional look.
During this project, I learned how to craft a basic Python script and embed it within a text file that could be triggered once the USB Rubber Ducky is connected. While the payloads I used were harmless pranks, they made it clear how easily a malicious actor could automate tasks like launching terminal commands, opening web pages, or downloading files—all in just seconds. This highlighted the very real threat posed by USB-based attacks and the importance of being cautious with unfamiliar devices.
The key takeaway from this project is simple but critical: NEVER insert a USB drive into your computer unless you trust its source completely. Even a device that looks like a standard flash drive can contain powerful automation scripts capable of compromising your system. The USB Rubber Ducky is a powerful tool for both ethical hackers and cybersecurity learners, offering a hands-on way to understand hardware-based vulnerabilities in a controlled, educational environment.
