# Hacking Cable: AI in post-exploitation operations

> Source: <https://palisaderesearch.org/blog/hacking-cable>
> Published: 2026-09-08 22:35:54+00:00

We demonstrate the operational feasibility of autonomous AI agents in the post-exploitation phase of cyber operations. Our proof-of-concept uses a USB device to deploy an AI agent that conducts reconnaissance, exfiltrates data, and spreads laterally—all without human intervention.

Development took one engineer one week; operation costs are under $1 per engagement. This shifts the economics for attackers: tasks that slow human teams down can now be automated at scale. State actors [including APT28](https://www.catonetworks.com/blog/cato-ctrl-threat-research-analyzing-lamehug/) are already deploying similar AI-driven capabilities in active campaigns.

### Learn more

- Technical Report: [hacking-cable-report.pdf](/assets/reports/hacking-cable-report.pdf)
- Thread: [https://x.com/PalisadeAI/status/1963596598728110588](https://x.com/PalisadeAI/status/1963596598728110588)