# Computer-Disabling USB Sticks The 'USB Killer' Computer Stick Surges Devices to Damage Them By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2016-09-15 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/computer-stick References: [likecool](http://www.likecool.com/USB_Kill_Stick_Kills_Any_Computer_In_Seconds--Gadget--Gear.html) & [usbkill](https://www.usbkill.com/) The 'USB Killer' computer stick looks like a traditional [USB thumb drive](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sandisk-1), but the little device is anything but. The device is designed to help permanently disable the capabilities of a computer in a matter of moments. The 'USB Killer' works by collecting the power output from the USB port that it is inserted into. Once the power needed to operate has been drawn, the 'USB Killer' discharges 200-volts of power into the computer. This creates a USB power surge which is purported to disable 95% of devices that have a USB port. Naturally, the 'USB Killer' computer stick is not meant to be taken lightly as the device will permanently render a computer damaged. The device, however, could come in handy for those looking to cover their tracks when getting rid of an [old device](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kleanly). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.5/10 - Popularity: 50% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **USB Disabling Devices:** Opportunity for developing devices that can disable USB ports, protecting against unauthorized data access or preventing malware attacks. - **Fast-destructing Hardware:** Potential for creating hardware that can self-destruct or render itself inoperable to protect sensitive information or prevent unauthorized use. - **Secure Device Disposal Solutions:** Opportunity to provide secure and irreversible methods for disposing of electronic devices, ensuring data privacy and preventing potential misuse. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Cybersecurity:** Disruptive innovation opportunities in developing advanced cybersecurity solutions to protect against USB port vulnerabilities and prevent data breaches. - **Electronics Manufacturing:** Potential for integrating self-destructing or hardware-disabling mechanisms into electronic devices to enhance security and privacy measures. - **E-waste Management:** Opportunity to offer secure and environmentally friendly disposal services for electronic devices, ensuring the destruction of data while promoting sustainability. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Data-Protecting USB Keys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nukii.md) - [Ruggedly Encrypted USB Drives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/encrypted-usb-drive.md) - [Data-Blocking Cables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/plugable-data-blocking-cable.md) - [Laptop-Fitted USB Stick Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/saint-antoine.md) - [Data-Storing Computer Hubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/external-ssd-drive.md) - [Spaceship-Inspired USB Hubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/docking-station-usb-hub.md) - [Icon-Shaped USB Drives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/folderdrive.md) - [Modern Aluminum USB Holders](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bitlounge.md) - [Always-Active Mouse Jigglers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vaydeer-mechanical-mouse-jiggler.md)