You shouldn't use any random cable that is provided to you to charge your favourite Android phone—or any other device, for that matter—at a public charging station for a few very good reasons. More importantly, there are always a number of security issues, so you might not receive the fastest charging speeds. Even though they are not scalable, "juice jacking" attacks that weaponize charging stations are common; however, Android 15's Lockdown mode now includes defences against such types of attacks.
Google is still working on Android 15, which is now in beta testing. The most recent development, spotted by apex tech sleuth Mishaal Rahman (via Android Authority), suggests that the operating system update will have built-in protections against fraudulent individuals who attempt to use juice-jacking devices. These attacks have the ability to install malicious apps, run commands, transmit malicious payloads to your device, and maliciously control how the USB connection handles data.
However, Rahman claims there is no reason to be concerned about juice jackers because Android currently prevents you from enabling USB Debugging before you unlock your smartphone. Access to files on the device is similarly restricted until you change the USB connection mode to explicitly allow file transfers. These safety nets work together to prevent attempts to execute ADB commands or tamper with your device's files. Lockdown mode, on the other hand, takes safety to the next level, and it just gets better with Android 15.
Put things on lockdown
Lockdown mode, which was introduced as a safety feature alongside Android 9 in 2018, was made available as a default in the power menu on Pixel phones with Android 12. Other device manufacturers are free to place the option elsewhere, but once selected, it disables all notifications and requires your original PIN, password, or pattern to restore device functionality.
After testing with a Pixel 6 Pro running Android 15 and another device running Android 14, Rahman confirmed that the most recent firmware prevents USB data access. Any current connections to the ADB terminal or linked input devices are likewise terminated when Lockdown mode is enabled. It should work as soon as eligible Pixel phones receive the Android 15 upgrade, but other OEMs must update their devices' USB HAL to include the necessary APIs for this implementation to function.
In any case, the Android 15 upgrade includes additional safeguards against juice jacking, even if you were already adequately protected on older versions. However, it's worth noting that taking precautions like avoiding unfamiliar chargers at airports and malls is the greatest and most effective defense.
