This write-up explores the feasibility and technical challenges of converting a standard USB flash drive, such as those from SanDisk, into a malicious device commonly referred to as a BadUSB or Rubber Ducky. BadUSB attacks exploit the programmable microcontrollers embedded in USB devices to emulate Human Interface Devices (HIDs) like keyboards, enabling attackers to inject malicious commands when plugged into a target system. The documented experiments reveal that typical commercial USB flash drives lack the necessary reprogrammable microcontrollers to perform true HID emulation, which is essential for executing automated payloads. Instead, specialized devices like Digispark or Rubber Ducky USBs, which contain microcontrollers designed for reprogramming, are required for such attacks. The write-up also includes a practical PowerShell-based manual attack vector that demonstrates how a USB device can be used to extract Wi-Fi credentials from a Windows system, highlighting a simpler but effective method of leveraging USB devices for credential theft. Overall, the content serves as an educational exploration rather than a report of a novel or widespread exploit, emphasizing the technical limitations of standard USB drives and the importance of specialized hardware for executing BadUSB-style attacks.

For European organizations, the threat posed by USB-based attacks remains relevant, particularly in environments with lax physical security controls or where users frequently connect unknown USB devices. Successful BadUSB attacks can lead to unauthorized command execution, credential theft, lateral movement, and potential compromise of sensitive data and systems. The PowerShell credential extraction technique demonstrated could expose Wi-Fi network credentials, potentially allowing attackers to infiltrate corporate networks or intercept communications. While the write-up does not describe a new vulnerability or exploit in the wild, it underscores the persistent risk of USB devices as attack vectors. Organizations in Europe with high-value intellectual property, critical infrastructure, or sensitive personal data are at risk if adversaries employ such USB-based tactics, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing. The medium severity reflects the technical barriers to exploitation using standard USB drives but acknowledges the ongoing threat from specialized devices and social engineering.

European organizations should implement strict USB device usage policies, including disabling USB ports where feasible or restricting them to authorized devices only. Deploy endpoint security solutions capable of detecting and blocking unauthorized HID devices and suspicious PowerShell activity. Educate employees on the risks of connecting unknown USB devices and enforce physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to workstations. Utilize device control software to whitelist approved USB devices and monitor USB port usage. Regularly audit and update security policies to address emerging USB-based attack techniques. Additionally, network segmentation and strong Wi-Fi security protocols (e.g., WPA3, robust password policies) can reduce the impact of credential theft. Implementing application whitelisting and restricting PowerShell execution policies can further mitigate the risk of script-based attacks triggered by USB devices.