Exploiting (X-ing)

As machines get more and more advanced, they get more and more complicated to a point where the person using the machine doesn’t know how the individual parts function. However, there are those who try to understand the complicated mechanics and try to exploit one of its subsystems to change the system as a whole. This process is dubbed Exploiting or just simply X-ing.

X-kit and Security Class

As the art of X-ing gets more and more developed, X-ers have developed a system to evaluate the security of such a system called Security Class, inspired by the already existing Armor Class. X-ing is often done with a multipurpose magical RUST device called an X-kit. The combination of the two led to the formalization of the practice and is commonly used by criminals as X-ing is considered tampering and often carries criminal charges.

However, some systems are too simple to be Exploited. Traditional swords and old Armas are often too simple to be X-ed, which is one of the many reasons why melee weapons are still in circulation despite the widespread use of Arma. These items are usually noted with SC 0. The following are examples SC of other common items.

Security Class Example

Simple Systems are usually one-to-one systems. Use a remote to open a garage door. Using buttons on an elevator etc. It is very simple to take over unsecure system like those.

Hardwired Systems are basically computers that are designed for one purpose only. Most appliances like a microwave or a vending machine are considered hardwired systems. They consist of many systems working together which makes them difficult to exploit. However, since they only have a single purpose, it’s easy to understand how the different parts work together. Most armas fall into this category.

Computer Integrated Systems are any system with the capability of your average computer. These systems are complicated with various parts working together to perform a myriad of tasks. They might also have some minor security systems. Things like an VI directory or Self-driving Vehicles would be considered a Computer Integrated System.

Security Systems are designed to be resistant against an exploit. In addition to anti tamper systems, which already makes it hard to interact with the systems, they are also often connected to external alarms or even air-gapped making it impossible to X it from range.

Military Grade Systems are not only designed to be resistant to X-ers but also immune to mundane attempts at X-ing them. These systems will usually be air-gapped and have physical and procedure focused defense as well. These systems are known to be Bastions against X-ers… for now.

Gaining Control of a System

To fully gain control of a system, you will need to X through multiple complicated systems.

First, you need to be within 5ft of the system you want to X because to gain full control, you may need to directly interact with the system.

Then, several checks to work through the systems. These checks are not necessarily limited to Intelligence (X-kit) checks. For example, you may need to perform a Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check to unplug the correct wire, or a Charisma (Deception) to bluff its security systems.

In the end, you would be able to gain control of the system, being able to perform any actions that are directly connected to the system.

Quick Exploit (QX)

Alternatively, you may also quickly X a system using what is called a Quick Exploit or QX. As an action, you can attempt to X a system that is within 20ft of you to cause temporary limited effects. This does not give you control over a system, however, this allows you to cause favorable effects at a moment’s notice.

Biofeedback

As an action, you can target an ERA That you can see. On a successful X, you deal 1d4 + Intelligence modifier lightning damage;

Shutdown

As an action, you can target a RUST Appliance that you can see. On a successful X, you disable it until the start of your next turn.

Malfunction

As an action, you can target a RUST Appliance that you can see. On a successful X, you cause a malfunction in that cybernetic that lasts until the start of your next turn.

Misfire

As an action, you can target an arma and cause it to misfire. On a successful X, you cause the Arma to expend all its ammunition making it require a reload for future use.

Quick Actions

As an action, you can target a system and cause it to trigger its basic function. For example, you target a keypad to unlock a door or target a camera to shut down. The action you are performing must be something very simple. Otherwise, you would need to gain control of the system.