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The FBI is warning people not to use public phone charging stations as hackers have been taking advantage of the situation to infect connected devices with malware.
“Avoid using free charging stations in airports, hotels or shopping centers,” said FBI Denver in an April 6 Twitter post. “Bad actors have figured out ways to use public USB ports to introduce malware and monitoring software onto devices. Carry your own charger and USB cord and use an electrical outlet instead.”
Malware is software designed to gain unauthorized access to devices like mobile phones and laptops. Once hackers gain access, they can manipulate the device’s tools and apps for their own personal gain or disrupting the original user’s life. Criminals can track keystrokes, get a hold of personal information, and commit identity fraud, as well as use financial information to steal funds, among other activities.
When bad actors use dirty USBs at public charging stations to infect devices with malware, it is known as “juice jacking.” At present, many malls, airports and public convenience stations have charging stations which are used regularly by commuters. The federal agency has recommended consumers to carry their own USB cables and charging plugs, and use AC electrical outlets.Juice Jacking
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has also advised consumers against the dangers of public USB charging stations.
Charging devices at public places could have “unfortunate consequences,” said the FCC in an advisory.
