Caution when using public charging stations

Travelers were always in danger. Centuries ago they were endangered by pirates, but modern pirates are moving digital. If you travel frequently you have probably seen several public charging stations, especially at airports. However practical it may be, you might want to think again the next time you need a little extra battery life. As IBM security experts report, cybercriminals use USB charging ports at airports, train stations and other public places to steal your personal data from your devices.

It is extremely easy for them to tamper with USB ports to install special software that intercepts your phone’s data, including your banking information. In fact, such attacks have also acquired their own name, ” Juice Jacking “. Many times the skilful does not even need to tease the USB port, but simply leaves a cable plugged in and waits for the first victim to fit the cable into his device.

Experts even like charging your phone to public USB ports, brushing your teeth with a toothbrush that you find tossed in the street – you don’t have the slightest idea who used it before you and why. Smartphone manufacturers know about Juice Jacking and if you have the latest software version, you will theoretically have no problem.

This method is not new, however in 2019 the transport sector has become the second most popular target for cybercriminals, right after financial institutions. The safest practice is to carry a charger with you and plug it into a power outlet, not a USB port.