Advanced USB Rubber Duckies: How New DuckyScript Expands Cross-Platform Threats

Advanced USB Rubber Duckies: How DuckyScript 3.0 Expands Cross-Platform Threats

In 2024, USB Rubber Duckies are getting better, and cybersecurity threats are expanding. From faking pop-ups to tricking Chrome into leaking passwords, these stealthy devices have come a long way, evolving into a versatile tool that’s no longer limited by device type or software version. With the latest version of DuckyScript, this USB-based attack tool is now more adaptable than ever, bridging previous gaps in cross-platform malware capabilities.

What Is a USB Rubber Ducky?

The USB Rubber Ducky is a malicious device disguised as a USB drive but actually acts as a keyboard emulator. Once plugged into a target computer, it can execute a series of predefined commands or scripts designed to perform a variety of malicious actions. Originally, the device had a significant limitation—it required carefully designed, OS-specific attack commands, limiting its success rate. But with the release of DuckyScript 3.0, this has changed dramatically.

Why DuckyScript 3.0 Matters

DuckyScript 3.0 represents a substantial upgrade from previous versions, turning the Rubber Ducky into a powerful programming tool for cyber attacks rather than a simple keyboard script executor. While DuckyScript 2.0 could execute sequential commands, the updated DuckyScript 3.0 allows for:

• Advanced flow control (with conditional checks and loops)
• Function definitions that let code run modularly
• Variable storage and use
• Device and OS-based logic

These features enable hackers to target both Windows and macOS devices with conditional commands. A Rubber Ducky can now “think” before executing, deciding which attack script to run based on the detected operating system, checking for specific software versions, or even self-terminating if connected to the wrong machine.

Real-World Capabilities of the Updated Rubber Ducky

Let's look at how these features might play out in realistic attacks:

1. Credential Theft

With DuckyScript 3.0, a Rubber Ducky can check if it’s connected to a Windows machine. If confirmed, it can execute a credential-harvesting script tailored for Windows. Alternatively, if it detects macOS, it can run a macOS-specific script for password theft. This adaptability significantly increases the threat to cross-platform environments.

2. Network and Browser Manipulation

Older Rubber Ducky scripts could, for example, make Chrome send saved passwords to an attacker’s server. Now, with conditional logic and variables, it could selectively target browsers and send phishing emails or network requests based on the detected OS or software environment.

3. Data Exfiltration and Remote Control

More advanced DuckyScript functionality allows hackers to establish backdoors or remote control options on targeted systems. A script might exfiltrate files, monitor network traffic, or redirect the victim’s DNS to an attacker’s server.

These capabilities turn the USB Rubber Ducky into more than a one-time-use device—it’s now programmable, versatile, and ready to adapt on the fly, increasing the complexity of cybersecurity defenses required.

Understanding DuckyScript 3.0 and Its Features

Let’s look more closely at the updates in DuckyScript 3.0 that enable these advanced functions.

Enhanced Logic and Flow Control

DuckyScript 3.0 introduces if-else statements, loops, and other control flow features that let the script make decisions based on variables, user input, or machine conditions. For example:

IF OS Windows

RUN Windows-specific-commands

ELSE

RUN Mac-specific-commands

END

This allows for flexible scripting that can be deployed on any system, making it highly adaptable and resilient to a range of targets.

Functions and Variable Storage

With the ability to store variables and use functions, DuckyScript 3.0 resembles a basic programming language rather than a simple script executor. A Rubber Ducky can perform tasks based on stored data, giving it the ability to remember previous steps and avoid redundant commands. For instance, the script could check for a Wi-Fi network connection, store that information, and proceed with data exfiltration only if a network connection is verified.

Conditional Commands Based on System Environment

The new scripting language includes the ability to detect the target operating system and software version before deploying malicious actions. This conditional behavior allows for device-specific attacks, minimizing detection risks and reducing reliance on hardcoded, single-platform scripts.

The Future of USB-Based Attacks with Rubber Ducky

As USB Rubber Ducky devices evolve, security professionals must stay vigilant, especially since DuckyScript 3.0 makes cross-platform attacks significantly easier to execute. Traditional endpoint security and antivirus measures often miss Rubber Ducky attacks because they look like legitimate USB devices and don’t always behave like traditional malware. For organizations concerned with insider threats or USB-based exploits, proactive measures such as training, blocking USB ports, and implementing advanced detection tools are essential.

Key Security Strategies to Combat USB Rubber Ducky Attacks

Understanding how attackers exploit USB devices is critical to defending against them. Here are some best practices for mitigating Rubber Ducky attacks:

1. Employee Awareness and Training

Security awareness training on the dangers of USB devices is essential. Employees must understand that plugging in unknown devices could potentially expose them to malicious scripts capable of credential theft or data exfiltration. Training programs, such as Keepnet Labs’ Security Awareness Training, can significantly reduce the success rate of these attacks.

2. Limit USB Port Access

Restrict USB port usage to only approved devices, which helps reduce the risk of USB-based attacks. Policies that enforce USB access control or disable unused ports are simple yet effective strategies.

3. Use Phishing and USB Simulators

USB-based attack simulators allow security teams to test their employees’ awareness and response to USB-based threats. The Phishing Simulator is also a valuable tool for assessing how employees respond to real-world attack simulations, including USB-based exploits.

4. Implement Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Tools

Modern EDR tools can detect unusual USB device behavior, helping identify and stop attacks before they gain access to sensitive information. By monitoring for suspicious activity, these tools add an extra layer of defense against USB-borne threats.

Final Thoughts

With the release of DuckyScript 3.0, USB Rubber Ducky attacks are now more flexible, adaptable, and dangerous than ever. Security teams must take proactive steps to address these growing risks. Combining strong USB device policies, security training, and cutting-edge detection tools can reduce exposure to these evolving threats.

Editor's Note: This blog was updated on November 14, 2024.