Hacker Gadgets – Toys for the Curious Tech Enthusiast

So, you’re into IT, security, or just fascinated by the world of hacking? At some point, you’ll stumble across the tools and gadgets that  hackers or pen-testers swear by. Let’s face it, these are the ultimate “toys for techies.” Whether it’s for work, learning, or just sheer curiosity, these gadgets bring something new to the table. Fair warning, though – these aren’t exactly budget-friendly. If your better half isn’t thrilled about you geeking out, join the club. My advice? Buy smart – only invest in what you’ll actually use. But hey, if you’re rolling in cash, go wild. You earned it, right? 😏

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The List

I’ve rounded up some of the coolest hacker gadgets out there. Some are essential for work, some are for testing, and others? Well, they’re just plain cool to own. Keep checking back—I’ll update this list as I discover new gems. Got a gadget you love? Share it in the comments!

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Alfa AWUS036ACH

A wireless network card built for serious Wi-Fi testing. This baby pairs perfectly with Kali Linux and is a must-have if you’re diving into Wi-Fi security. Works like magic.

1. Alfa AWUS036ACH:

   • Installation: The Alfa AWUS036ACH adapter can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: To conduct wireless penetration testing, the adapter can be used to capture and analyze wireless traffic using tools like Wireshark. The adapter can also be used to test the security of wireless networks and devices by attempting to connect to them and sniffing traffic.
   • Benefits: The Alfa AWUS036ACH adapter provides a high-performance wireless adapter for penetration testing and security testing, allowing ethical hackers to analyze and exploit vulnerabilities in wireless networks.

Equipped with 802.11ac wireless standards, and years of field-proven experiences, [ALFA AWUS036ACH](https://www.alfa.com.tw/products/awus036ach?variant=36473965871176) provides 2.4GHz 300Mbps or 5.0GHz 867Mbps Wi-Fi data transfer speeds for outstanding blah blah blah… best wireless USB network card you need to hack your neighbor WIFI. Recommended to use with Kali, mentioned in any WIFI hacking guide. I have it, works like a charm. You need it! You need it, if you want to test some WIFI security.

To use the Alfa AWUS036ACH:
1. Connect the USB dongle to a computer running Kali Linux or any other Linux distribution.
2. Open the terminal and type `iwconfig` to list the available wireless interfaces.
3. Identify the interface that corresponds to the Alfa AWUS036ACH (usually named `wlan0`).
4. Use `airmon-ng start wlan0` to enable monitor mode on the wireless interface.
5. Use `airodump-ng wlan0mon` to scan for wireless networks and capture packets.
6. Identify the target network and channel by analyzing the scan results.
7. Use `aireplay-ng -0 5 -a <MAC_address> wlan0mon` to deauthenticate clients from the target network.
8. Use `mdk3 wlan0mon a -a <MAC_address> -m -v` to perform a man-in-the-middle attack on the target network.
9. Use `aircrack-ng -w <wordlist> -b <MAC_address> -e <essid> capture-file.cap` to crack the WPA/WPA2 key.

TP-LINK TL-WR802N

Pocket-sized, travel-friendly router. Keeps your connection secure on the go, whether at a sketchy hotel or coffee shop. Lightweight, fast, and easy to set up.

1. TP-Link TL-WR802N:

   • Installation: The TP-Link router can be plugged into an Ethernet port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: The router can be used to conduct wireless penetration testing by capturing and analyzing wireless traffic using tools like Wireshark. The router can also be used to test the security of wireless networks and devices by attempting to connect to them and sniffing traffic.
   • Benefits: The TP-Link router provides a compact and affordable Wi-Fi router for penetration testing and security testing, allowing ethical hackers to analyze and exploit vulnerabilities in wireless networks.

[300Mbps Wireless N Nano Router](https://www.tp-link.com/en/home-networking/wifi-router/tl-wr802n/) is a pocket-size ideal for travel use. I always have it with me on my holiday or business trip. Small and fast. Easy to configure. It provides me with safe use of the Internet in the hotel room. Thanks to this device, your computer is not exposed directly to a publicly available network. This one is popular in my country, but you will probably find similar in place you live. I also recommend [GL-iNet](https://www.gl-inet.com/) products like [microuter-N300](https://www.gl-inet.com/products/microuter-n300/), [Shadow (GL-AR300M Series)](https://www.gl-inet.com/products/gl-ar300m/) or [Mango (GL-MT300N-V2)](https://www.gl-inet.com/products/gl-mt300n-v2/).

To use the TP-Link TL-WR802N:
10. Connect the router to your computer or smartphone using an Ethernet cable.
11. Open a web browser and navigate to the router's configuration page (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
12. Log in with the default username and password (admin/admin).
13. Change the default password and set up your wireless network settings.
14. Configure the router's firewall, QoS, and other advanced settings as needed.
15. Connect other devices to the router's Wi-Fi network to access the Internet.

YubiKey 5 NFC

The gold standard for two-factor authentication. Easy to use with tons of services, and the NFC support is flawless. Sleep easy knowing your accounts are locked down.

1. YubiKey:

   • Installation: The YubiKey can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: To use the YubiKey for two-factor authentication, the user must register the YubiKey with the service provider and then use it to generate a unique one-time password for each login session.
   • Benefits: The YubiKey provides an extra layer of security by requiring a physical token in addition to a password, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access to sensitive accounts.

The industry’s #1 security key, enabling strong two-factor, multi-factor and passwordless authentication. I am using [YubiKey 5 NFC](https://www.yubico.com/pl/product/yubikey-5-nfc/). Best option for two factor authentication. Easy to use with many services and operating systems. NFC function works very well with mobile phones. [Yubico](https://www.yubico.com/) company provides many variants of Yubikey, if you are not sure which one you should choose, use their [quiz](https://www.yubico.com/pl/quiz/). I sleep more peacefully with this key.

To use the YubiKey:
16. Insert the YubiKey into a USB port on your computer or mobile device.
17. Open a web browser and navigate to the website or service that supports YubiKey authentication.
18. Click the "Sign in with YubiKey" button or link.
19. Tap the YubiKey to authenticate your identity.
20. If the YubiKey is configured correctly, you will be logged in to the website or service.

Hardware Wallets

Secure your crypto like a pro. Whether you go for Trezor or Ledger, these wallets keep your coins safe from prying eyes.

1. Hardware Wallet:

   • Installation: The hardware wallet can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: The hardware wallet can be used to securely store and protect cryptocurrencies and other sensitive data. The wallet can be used as a second factor for two-factor authentication, providing an extra layer of security.
   • Benefits: Hardware wallets provide a secure storage solution for cryptocurrencies and sensitive data, protecting against unauthorized access.

If you are a cryptocurrency enthusiast, have a lot of various coins and want to properly secure your funds, you should think about a hardware wallet. There are two popular suppliers of this type of equipment on the market. [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) and [Ledger](https://www.ledger.com/). Both offer two devices. [Trezor One](https://shop.trezor.io/product/trezor-one-white?h=[ID]), [Trezor Model T](https://shop.trezor.io/product/trezor-model-t?h=[ID]) and [Ledger Nano S](https://shop.ledger.com/products/ledger-nano-s), [Ledger Nano X](https://shop.ledger.com/products/ledger-nano-x). I do not have enough cryptocurrencies to worry about their safe storage, the devices are so expensive that it is not profitable for me to buy them yet. I trust my long strong password stored in KeepassXC and the encryption and backup of the wallets. However, I have one Trezor in mind.

To use a hardware wallet:
21. Insert the hardware wallet into a USB port on your computer or mobile device.
22. Open a web browser and navigate to the website or service that supports hardware wallets.
23. Follow the instructions to create a new wallet or import an existing one.
24. Transfer funds to and from the wallet using the secure hardware encryption.

USB Killer

Stress-test hardware or, you know, completely fry unprotected devices. Remote activation and a new level of chaos at your fingertips.

1. USB Killer:

   • Installation: The USB Killer can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: To disable USB ports, the USB Killer requires a short circuit between the USB port and the computer's power supply. This disrupts the communication between the computer and the USB device, preventing data transfer or syncing.
   • Benefits: The USB Killer can be used to disrupt communication channels and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.

To use the USBKill-V4:
1. Plug the USBKill-V4 into a USB port on your computer or mobile device.
2. The device will begin to charge and power the connected USB device.
3. If the USB device is not protected, it will be disabled or destroyed.
4. The device can be remotely activated by sending a signal from a mobile device.

AirDrive Keylogger

Tiny, Wi-Fi-enabled, and perfect for testing physical security. Ultra-portable and packs a punch.

To use the AirDrive Keylogger:
1. Plug the AirDrive Keylogger into a USB port on your computer or mobile device.
2. The device will begin logging keystrokes and other input events.
3. The logged data can be accessed through the AirDrive web interface or the AirDrive app.
4. The logged data can be exported to a file or deleted to prevent further logging.

Camera Cover

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. Skip the duct tape and opt for sleek, reusable covers for all your devices.
To use a camera cover:
1. Fold the cover in half and place it over the camera lens.
2. Make sure the cover is securely fastened to the camera.
3. The cover will block any visible light from entering the camera and prevent unauthorized access.
4. The cover can be used with any camera, including digital and film cameras.

Portable Signal Jammer

Disrupt Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, and more (just remember these are probably illegal in public spaces). Use responsibly.

1. Portable Cell Phone Jammers:

   • Installation: The portable cell phone jammers can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: To jam cell phone signals, the jammers must be placed near the cell phone tower or base station and turned on. The jammers will then disrupt the communication between the cell phone and the tower, preventing calls and messages from being received or sent.
   • Benefits: The portable cell phone jammers can be used to disrupt cellular networks, affecting the ability of cell phone users to make calls and send messages.

To use a portable cell phone jammer:
1. Plug the jammer into a USB port on your computer or mobile device.
2. The device will begin to charge and power the connected phone or other electronic device.
3. The jammer will transmit a strong signal that interrupts the phone's communication and prevents it from functioning properly.
4. The jammer can be used to test the security of a phone or to prevent unauthorized access to a phone.

Data Blocker

A simple plug-in between your USB cable and charger that blocks malicious data transfers. Because safe charging matters.

To use a data blocker:
1. Attach the blocker between your USB cable and the computer or mobile device.
2. The blocker will prevent any data transfer or syncing from occurring.
3. The blocker can be used to charge mobile devices without any risk of hacking or uploading viruses.
4. The blocker can be used to block data transfer or syncing on a specific device.

Amateur Radio

The BAOFENG UV-5R lets you tune into local chatter and emergency frequencies. Just don’t press "transmit" unless you’ve got a permit.

1. Amateur Radio:

   • Installation: An amateur radio set can be built using components like a radio, an antenna, and a battery. The set requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: The amateur radio set can be used to listen to radio signals and gather information for security testing. The set can be used to broadcast messages or signals for security testing.
   • Benefits: Amateur radio can be used to analyze radio signals and gain information about wireless networks and devices, which can be useful for penetration testing and security research.

To use an amateur radio:
1. Turn on the radio and make sure it is receiving a strong signal.
2. Adjust the radio to the appropriate band for your location or frequency of interest.
3. Listen to the radio for any interesting sounds or messages.
4. If you are a licensed amateur radio operator, you can transmit or receive on the radio.

Precision Tool Kit

If you’re cracking open laptops or repairing gadgets, invest in a quality kit. I recommend IFIXIT – a cut above the cheap knockoffs.

To use a precision screwdriver repair tool kit:
1. Unscrew or tighten any screws or fasteners using the appropriate precision screwdriver or tool.
2. Use the appropriate tool to remove or install hardware or components.
3. Use the precision screwdriver to remove or install hardware or components carefully and precisely.
4. Keep the tools and parts clean and maintain the tool kit for future use.

Smart Card/NFC Reader

Need to clone or test RFID access cards? This tool is perfect for penetration testers working in physical security.

1. Smart Card RFID Reader/Writer:

   • Installation: The smart card reader/writer can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: To read and write access cards and RFID tags, the reader/writer can be used with compatible smart cards and RFID tags. The reader/writer can be used to store and retrieve data from the cards.
   • Benefits: Smart cards and RFID tags can be used for access control systems, allowing only authorized individuals to gain access to restricted areas. Smart cards and RFID tags can also provide data protection by encrypting sensitive information.

To use a smart card RFID reader/writer:
1. Insert the card into the reader or writer and hold it in place.
2. The reader or writer will read or write the data stored on the card.
3. If the card is not properly formatted, it may not be read or written to.
4. The data can be read or written to the card using the appropriate software or programming language.

USB Rubber Ducky

The iconic tool for injecting payloads into unsuspecting systems. It’s as cool as it sounds—straight out of Mr. Robot.

1. USB Rubber Ducky:

   • Installation: The USB Rubber Ducky can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: The Rubber Ducky can be programmed to deliver malware or other payloads to a target system. The Rubber Ducky can also be used to record keystrokes, capturing sensitive information.
   • Benefits: The USB Rubber Ducky can be used as a malware delivery mechanism or a keylogger for collecting sensitive information.

To use the USB Rubber Ducky:
11. Plug the USB Rubber Ducky into a computer or mobile device.
12. The USB Rubber Ducky will execute the predefined script, which can be customized to perform various tasks.
13. The script can be used to install backdoors, exfiltrate data, or capture credentials.
14. The USB Rubber Ducky can be used for various purposes, such as penetration testing or malware distribution.

Magnetic Card Reader & Writer

1. Magnetic Card Reader & Writer:

   • Installation: The magnetic card reader/writer can be plugged into a USB port and requires no additional drivers or software installation.
   • Usage: The reader/writer can be used to read and write magnetic cards. Magnetic cards can be used for securely storing sensitive data, such as passwords or encryption keys.
   • Benefits: Magnetic cards provide a physical layer of protection by preventing data from being tampered with. Magnetic cards can be used to securely store and protect sensitive information.

To use a magnetic card reader and writer:
1. Insert a card into the reader and hold it in place.
2. The reader will read the data stored on the card.
3. To write data to a card, insert an empty card and write the data using the appropriate software or programming language.
4. The data can be read or written to the card using the appropriate software or programming language.

Privacy roll stamp

To use a privacy roll stamp:
1. Insert the roller rubber stamp into a document or file.
2. The roller rubber stamp will erase the sensitive information on the document or file.
3. The sensitive information can be erased quickly and efficiently using the roller rubber stamp.
4. The erased information can be permanently removed and the document or file can be stored securely.

RFID Detector

To use the RFID Detector:
6. Connect the RFID Detector to a computer or mobile device.
7. The RFID Detector will scan for RFID tags or cards in the vicinity.
8. If an RFID tag or card is detected, the detector will read the data stored on the tag or card.
9. The data can be read using the appropriate software or programming language.
10. The RFID Detector can be used for various purposes, such as inventory management, access control, or data collection.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re building your hacker toolkit, diving into pen-testing, or just looking to expand your knowledge, these gadgets are a great start. Some are practical, others are just plain fun, but all of them will spark your curiosity.

Got a favorite hacker gadget I missed? Let me know!