Tools like the Flipper Zero have become popular in the cybersecurity community, and both are widely used for penetration testing. But the increasingly popular open-source alternative Hackbat has arrived and outgrown it. Hackbat: A Latex Based Reporting Tool for HackersDeveloped by Pablo Trujillo, Hackbat provides individualization features for hackers.
Key Features of Hackbat
Hackbat is based around a custom PCB with the Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller famed for its efficiency and performance. It also comes with several modules that enhance its functionality:
Wi-Fi module: Used for testing the wireless network and connecting.
NFC Module (PN532): for talking with NFC cards; that’s great for testing contactless systems.
Visible Radio Module: Transmission and receiving of radio frequencies is critical in analyzing wireless communication
USB Interface: Enables the execution of keystroke injection attacks as a part of testing USB security vulnerabilities
MicroSD Card Slot: Another means of expanding storage to the unit for logs, scripts, and other pieces of data.
OLED Display and D-Pad: Has an easy-to-use interface for navigating and usage.
All the features collectively make Hackbat a complete penetration testing toolkit.
Building Your Own Hackbat
A key benefit of Hackbat is that it is open-source. Trujillo released all relevant files and documetation for others to manufacture and assemble their own versions of these devices. Not only does this save money but allows customization for precise requirements.
If you are new to hardware assembly, there is a learning curve here. There will be challenges, like finding equivalent parts when components are unavailable. Nonetheless, this can be a learning and earning adventure for anybody who has an interest in cyber security and electronics.
Cost Considerations
Cost: Building a Hackbat will seamlessly depend on the price of components and the solution of production. The estimates is potentially be around $40 to make 3 units, which is cheap relative to its commercial counterparts.
Pros vs Flipper Zero
The Flipper Zero is a great tool, but Hackbat has advantages:
Open-Source Design: Users can customize and improve the device according to their needs.
Cost-Effectiveness: Building a Hackbat is cheaper than getting a Flipper Zero.
Advanced Features: Possessing all tools from Wi-Fi to NFC to RF with simple to use interface, Hackbat has it all.
