What Are USB Kill Sticks and How They Can Destroy Your Devices

Most people think of USB drives as simple tools for storing and transferring files. But not all USB sticks are as harmless as they appear. Some, known as “USB Kill Sticks” or “USB Killers,” are specifically designed to damage or destroy electronic devices within seconds of being plugged in.

These malicious devices work by rapidly charging and discharging internal capacitors, sending high-voltage surges into the host device’s USB ports. 

The result? Severe hardware damage, often irreversible. A notable case in 2019 involved a man who used a USB Killer to destroy 66 computers at a college in New York, causing over $58,000 in damages.

USB Killers can affect nearly any device with a USB port—laptops, smartphones, TVs, game consoles, and more. Some systems may suffer total failure, while others, like the MacBook Air M2, may only have their ports rendered inoperative.

Originally developed by a security team in Hong Kong for testing device durability, USB Kill Sticks are now sold commercially. 

The most recent version, USB Kill v4, starts at $59. A more advanced “Kit” version includes adapters for compatibility with smartphones, printers, routers, and other electronics.

What makes version 4 especially dangerous is its built-in battery. This allows it to deliver a destructive surge even if the target device is turned off, effectively bypassing USB-C and Lightning port security systems. Some models can be triggered remotely or on a timed schedule, making it incredibly difficult to trace the source of an attack.&nb

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