WireBadger™ Malicious USB Cable Detector Earns TIME Best Inventions of 2026 Special Mention

Berkeley Varitronics Systems Announces Availability of Innovative Cybersecurity Device Designed to Detect Hidden Threats in USB and Lightning Cables

METUCHEN, N.J., Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Berkeley Varitronics Systems (BVS), a leading manufacturer of wireless security and threat detection solutions, announces the commercial availability of ⁠WireBadger™, an innovative handheld device designed to identify malicious USB and Lightning cables capable of compromising computers, smartphones, and sensitive networks.

WireBadger has also earned a ⁠Special Mention in TIME's Best Inventions of 2026, recognizing its innovative approach to emerging cybersecurity threats.

Exposing Hidden Cyber Threats

Malicious USB cables can conceal sophisticated electronics designed to execute unauthorized commands, capture keystrokes, steal sensitive information, or establish covert wireless connections—all while appearing identical to ordinary charging cables.

One example is the O.MG Cable, a commercially available penetration-testing tool that can be configured to deliver malicious payloads, perform keylogging, and establish an embedded Wi-Fi access point for remotely triggering attacks. Although developed for authorized security testing, such technology demonstrates the potential dangers hidden inside everyday cables.

WireBadger addresses this vulnerability through a multi-stage detection process that automatically analyzes electrical current consumption and scans for suspicious Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) activity. Unlike conventional continuity testers, WireBadger identifies electronic and wireless indicators that may reveal concealed malicious hardware.

A built-in USB-C data-disable switch provides additional protection during cable inspection.

Optional Test Cable Kit

To demonstrate WireBadger's detection capabilities, BVS offers an optional Test Cable Kit, sold separately, containing clearly labeled, known-good cables alongside known malicious cables, including O.MG cables.

The kit enables hands-on demonstrations and training, allowing security professionals to compare safe and compromised cables while becoming familiar with WireBadger's detection process.

Designed for Security Professionals

WireBadger is designed for government agencies, military installations, corporate cybersecurity teams, financial institutions, law enforcement, penetration testers, and technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM) professionals.

Its portable design enables rapid cable inspections in offices, conference rooms, secure facilities, and other environments where unauthorized hardware could compromise sensitive information.

Recognized for Innovation

TIME's annual Best Inventions list highlights technologies addressing important challenges across numerous industries.

"With billions of USB and Lightning cables in circulation worldwide, the potential attack surface for cybercriminals is enormous," said Scott Schober, President and CEO of Berkeley Varitronics Systems. "WireBadger was developed to address this growing threat by giving penetration testers and security professionals a fast, effective way to identify suspicious cables that may conceal malicious electronics. Our goal is to make detecting these hidden hardware threats a routine part of every security assessment."

Availability and Pricing

WireBadger™ is available now for $1,249.00 through BVS, Amazon, and Walmart, with quantity discounts available. The optional Test Cable Kit is sold separately.

For specifications and purchasing information, visit the ⁠official WireBadger product page.

About Berkeley Varitronics Systems

Founded in 1972, Berkeley Varitronics Systems is a U.S.-based manufacturer of advanced wireless security, cybersecurity, and electronic threat detection equipment serving law enforcement, government agencies, military organizations, and security professionals worldwide.

Media Contact:

Scott Schober

732-548-3737

SOURCE Berkeley Varitronics Systems