The next time you consider using one of the free charging stations at the airport, hotel or mall, you better think twice. The dangers of public USB charging stations are nothing new – there is even a name associated with this act: “juice jacking”. But the FBI is now making it clear that you should avoid these power services for good.
A recent tweet of the FBI advises travelers to avoid using free charging stations for fear of “juice jacking”. Indeed, with a few modifications, criminals can introduce malware and surveillance software and steal your smartphone data as soon as you connect your device to an open port.
“Avoid using free charging stations at airports, hotels or shopping malls. Hackers have found ways to use public USB ports to introduce malware and surveillance software to devices. Bring your own charger and USB cord and use an electrical outlet instead,” the FBI says.
Two options to be sure not to have your data stolen
The number one solution to this problem is obviously not to charge your devices on a public USB outlet. But in case of urgent need, here are other ways to fix your battery without risking losing your personal information.
- The first option is a portable battery. By acting as an intermediary, an external battery can be recharged without the risk of exposing your data and your security, then relay this energy to your smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.
- The second option is to charge with a USB adapter that blocks data transfer. Like the portable battery, the USB adapter acts as an intermediary between your personal device and the potentially malicious power outlet. It provides this security by removing the data connection traditionally found on USB cables. When the accessory is attached to your charging cable, it physically blocks any data transfer between the socket and your device.
Most data blockers support adaptive charging, which means you don’t compromise charging speed by using a data blocker. The most important thing to remember is not to plug your device directly into any public outlets you don’t trust.
Source: ZDNet.com