As technology continues to advance, more and more people rely on their mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to keep them connected. However, these devices require a lot of power, which means that charging on the go has become an essential part of daily life. Many public places, such as airports, hotels, and shopping centers, have started to offer free charging stations for consumers to use while they’re out and about.
However, these free public charging stations have recently become the target of criminals who use them to load malware or software onto devices, in a practice known as “juice jacking.” This software can then provide hackers with access to personal information, such as usernames, passwords, and other sensitive data.
The FBI’s Denver field office issued a warning via Twitter, advising consumers to avoid using public USB ports to charge their devices. They suggest carrying a personal charger and using an electrical outlet instead. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) also warned consumers about “juice jacking” in 2021 and recommends avoiding public stations.
While the FBI has not reported any recent consumer harm from “juice jacking,” this warning should be taken seriously to avoid the risk of cybercrime. Criminals are always finding new ways to exploit technology to their advantage, and public charging stations are just the latest in a long line of potential targets.
It is essential for consumers to remain vigilant when using public charging stations or any public Wi-Fi network. Always use strong passwords, and avoid logging into sensitive accounts or providing personal information while connected to public networks. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and your personal data from cybercriminals looking to exploit technology for their gain.