According to a report by Fox News, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has recently issued a warning on Facebook, stating that plugging your phone charger into a public USB port at airports could pose network security risks. Hackers are taking advantage of these ports to obtain sensitive personal information.
In their post, TSA mentioned, “In this age of technology, cybersecurity has never been more crucial.” They mentioned that hackers can install malicious software (known as juice/port jacking) on USB ports. Therefore, it is advised not to directly plug your phone charger into airport USB ports.
TSA recommends carrying a portable charger or power bank that meets TSA security requirements to charge your devices. They also remind travelers not to use free public Wi-Fi, especially when conducting online shopping. The agency warns, “Do not enter any sensitive information when using insecure Wi-Fi.”
“Juice Jacking” refers to charging traps or battery theft, where data is stolen through charging stations. This cyber attack utilizes special USB devices to load malware onto charging stations or cables connected to them. When a user plugs their phone into one of these charging ports, it automatically downloads malicious software and installs it on the device. This malware allows hackers to remotely control the user’s device and gather more data, such as personal information, GPS location, social media activities, photos, call logs, and other running apps.
Last week, Fox News technology reporter, known for his focus on high-tech products and the internet, Kurt Knutsson, revealed on the “Fox & Friends” program that the issue of “Juice Jacking” at airport USB ports is becoming increasingly serious.
“In terms of their tactics, this is nothing new for hackers,” Knutsson said. He mentioned that criminals steal information through commonly used USB ports in airport waiting areas, particularly in boarding gate areas.
Once malicious software is installed, hackers search for passwords, bank information, credit card numbers, and other sensitive personal data, Knutsson emphasized.
He strongly advises people not to plug their phone charger’s USB port into public ports.
As early as April 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warned consumers against using free public charging stations for phones and other electronic devices.
Many shopping centers, cafes, airports, and other public places offer free charging stations for customers to quickly charge their phones as part of enhancing customer service. However, users utilizing these services may not realize that their phones could be vulnerable to cyber attacks.
A tweet from the FBI Denver field office stated, “Avoid using free charging stations at airports, hotels, or shopping centers.”
“Criminals have found ways to introduce malware and monitoring software into devices using public USB ports. Bring your own charger and USB cable, switch to power outlets,” the FBI advised.
If charging outside is necessary, the best self-protection methods include: carrying your own charging cable, charging directly from a power outlet with your charger head, and using a portable power bank.