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Showing posts with label Public Charging Stations. Show all posts
User Safety
Data Privacy Mobile Security Public Charging Stations USB Attacks User Safety

Here's Why You Shouldn't Use Public USB Charging Ports

 

We've all been there: stranded in a coffee shop with a dropping phone battery and no connector, only to find a free USB charging station nearby. Relieved, you plug in your device and go about your business, unaware that a potential threat lurks behind that seemingly benign USB port. 

That concern is "juice jacking," a cybersecurity vulnerability that has received enough attention in recent years to warrant an advisory from the FBI. So, what exactly is juice jacking and how risky is it? Here's all you need to know, along with some recommendations for keeping your mobile devices safe while charging on the road. 

What is juice-jacking? 

Juice-jacking is when hackers siphon your phone's data while it is charging. It achieves this using software placed in a kiosk that allows you to quickly charge your phone, or through a cable connected to a charging station. It can do this by plugging the USB charger directly into the socket. USBs, unlike two-pronged plugs, may transmit data as well as electricity. 

The methodology is similar to how a "skimmer" steals your bank or credit card information; however, juice-jacking has the potential to collect all of the data on your cell phone, including passwords, account information, contacts, emails, and so on. While this form of hacking is not yet widespread, it has the potential to become so. However, there are techniques to defend yourself from this type of hack. 

Prevention Tips 
  • Do not plug your phone directly into a USB charging port. Keep your data secure by using a 2-prong electrical charger.
  • Don't use the provided cord or someone else's 2-prong attachment since it might contain software designed to steal your information. 
  • Use a "sync stop" device to prevent attackers from accessing your phone. When charging your phone, leave it locked or switched off. 
  • Most phones cannot access your information while locked or switched off. Don't rely on others; bring your own personal power bank to charge your mobile device. 

When your phone's battery goes low in the airport, hotel, or coffee shop, be sure you're prepared to give it the power it requires without leaving you powerless.
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Public USB Stations
Cyber Security FBI FCC Juice Jacking Public Charging Stations Public USB Stations

Juice Jacking: FBI Warns Against Using Public USB Stations


Public USB ports are now available almost anywhere. One can plug his smartphone, tablet, or other electronic devices to charge his batteries. Although this may seem like a blessing to some, the FBI says it's otherwise. 

The FBI has just issued a warning to consumers telling them not to use free public charging stations since cybercriminals have managed to take control of them and infect devices with malware, which may allow hackers access to your phone, tablet, or computer. 

“Avoid using free charging stations in airports, hotels or shopping centers[…]Bad actors have figured out ways to use public USB ports to introduce malware and monitoring software onto devices,” the bureau stated in a tweet. 

What is “Juice Jacking”? 

A cyber-attack technique called “juice jacking” allows hackers to use public USB ports to infect victims’ devices with malware and monitoring software. Theoretically, these types of tools that may be set up in this manner enable hackers to gain access to the data on your smartphone and steal your passwords, allowing them to carry out activities like identity theft, money transfers from your bank account, or even just selling your information on the dark web. 

Due to the rising popularity of public charging stations, which are now available in airports, shopping malls, and train stations, there is a higher chance of victims falling prey to cyberattacks of this kind. Users may not be able to recognize the risk since the hackers alter the charging station and pass it off as authentic. 

However, despite being aware of the danger, many people still charge their phones. According to a consumer alert issued by the FCC in 2021, criminals may leave cables at the stations or may even distribute infected cords as a promotional gift. 

How Can You Protect Yourself from Juice Jacking? 

Here we are recommending some measures FCC advised by FCC to avoid becoming a juice jacking victim: 

Do Not Use USB Charging Stations: The best approach to avoid juice jacking is to utilize an AC power outlet rather than a public charging station. Some users solely stick to USB charging because certain smartphones are sold without an AC power adaptor and they may be pricey. Also, it is possible that some power stations not have AC power outlets. 

Use Your Own AC, Car Chargers, and USB Cables: People who use their smartphones for extended periods of time will find external and portable batteries to be helpful. Although it adds to the cost, it is a secure method of avoiding being "juiced." 

Use a Charging-only Cable: The gadget battery may be charged and data can be transferred using USB ports. There are wires designed solely for charging that forbid sending or receiving data. When you wish to use a public charging station, get one from a trustworthy supplier.  

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