Whisker: An Open-Source Alternative to Flipper Zero for Hacking and Prototyping

Published  January 20, 2025   0
Whisker hacking tool

Since the launch of Flipper Zero, hacking and pen testing tools have gained a lot of attention. Devices like Flipper Zero, HackRF, M1 Multitool, HackBat, Bleshark, and RF-Clown have shown how accessible and useful these tools can be. Now, DevKitty is introducing Whisker, a cat-themed open-source hacking console. Whisker is designed to explore wireless networks, test USB security, and quickly build hardware prototypes. It’s set to launch soon on Crowd Supply, offering an affordable and educational tool for both beginners and experts.

Whisker

Powered by the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, Whisker supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB functionality. Its dual SMA connectors allow for long-range Wi-Fi scanning, hosting honeypots, and spoofing packets. It’s compatible with popular tools like Kismet and Wireshark, making it suitable for wireless auditing and wardriving. The device also includes a firmware feature called ScriptKitty, which can emulate a USB keyboard to perform keystroke injection attacks, similar to a USB rubber ducky,  offering a practical way to test USB security across different operating systems.

Whisker PCB

Whisker isn’t just for hacking; it’s also a great tool for prototyping. It works with Adafruit Stemma QT and Sparkfun Qwiic sensors, making it easy to connect a wide range of components. Developers can use CircuitPython to program the board and even stack multiple Whisker boards for larger projects. This makes it ideal for building custom hardware or experimenting with new ideas. Everything about Whisker is open source, including its design files and firmware. It also comes with educational resources, making it a good choice for learning about cybersecurity and electronics. The updated version includes new features like an OLED display, reactive sound feedback, and built-in LiPo battery charging. With its small size and versatile features, Whisker is a handy tool for anyone interested in wireless security, USB testing, or hardware development.