The FBI has issued a stern warning against using public phone charging stations, citing the risk of malware and data theft. This comes as an increasing number of people rely on these convenient charging points in malls and airports. But how safe are these public USB stations, and what can you do to protect yourself?
By Aubree Ross
The FBI’s Warning
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has cautioned consumers to avoid using public phone charging stations. According to a tweet from the FBI’s Denver branch, these stations are being exploited by malicious actors to spread malware and monitoring software. The agency has advised people to carry their chargers and use electrical outlets instead.
The Risk of “Juice Jacking”
Security experts have long raised concerns about the risks associated with public charging stations. The term “juice jacking” was coined in 2011 to describe this very issue. Drew Paik, formerly of security firm Authentic8, explained that plugging your phone into a compromised power strip or charger could infect your device and compromise all your data.
How Data Gets Compromised
The charging cord you use for your phone is not just for charging; it’s also a data transfer medium. When you plug your phone into your computer, for instance, you can transfer photos and other data. A compromised port could give a hacker access to your emails, text messages, photos, and contacts.
FCC’s Additional Caution
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) also chimed in on the issue, updating a blog post to warn that a corrupted charging port could allow a malicious actor to lock a device or extract personal data and passwords. They even mentioned that criminals have been known to leave infected cables plugged in at charging stations or distribute them as promotional gifts.
The convenience of public charging stations is undeniable, especially when your device is running low on battery. However, the risks far outweigh the benefits. The FBI and FCC’s warnings serve as a timely reminder to always carry your charger and be cautious where you plug in your devices. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to protecting your personal data.