The PlugBot ~ A covert penetration testing device

The annoying thing about the PlugBot is that the "creator" is trying to get patents put on the device - as if putting Metasploit on a PlugPC is anything unique (been doing this since they came out). See "© 2010. Patent pending." at the footer of the about page.

From talking to others in the local security/hacking scene (the PlugBot creator and myself live in the same area) nobody seems to be impressed with what he wants to do with it. PwnieExpress is a much better alternative. But, in reality - if you're planning on using these there's no reason why you wouldn't just buy and build yourself.

I'd be curious to see how this differs from a product I'd seen before, and was at DerbyCon: http://pwnieexpress.com/

Isn't this just a Marvel Sheevaplug with a sticker and some software? How is this thing patent pending?

Here's the PlugBot: http://i.imgur.com/SvHQq.png And here's the Sheevaplug: http://www.globalscaletechnologies.com/skins/skin_1/images/s...

The picture in the Kickstarter video also looks a lot like the inital form factor of the Sheevaplug, still seen in the datasheet. Here's the video screen shot: http://i.imgur.com/LmOCX.png And here's the datasheet: http://www.plugcomputer.org/405/us/plug-basic/documentation/... http://i.imgur.com/3azJX.png

Also, isn't It's a covert penetration testing device (bot) designed for covert use during physical penetration tests. a little redundant? That's the second sentence of the copy, and it doesn't set up a good first impression.

A large network of these surruptiously deployed throughout a city, town, country in or near free wifi points would make be an interesting ploy. I agree that roll your own is a better option, but for some, ahem, experts, ahem, this may be an easier option.