CYBERSECURITY experts have issued a warning about a “juice jacking” attacks that could cost you dearly.
Specialists at Trend Micro recently issued a list of places you have to be particularly wary of this scam.
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The Trend Micro blog explains: “Juice jacking is a type of cyber-attack where an attacker steals data from a mobile device or installs malware on it using a public USB charging port.”
Both the FCC and the FBI have warned about juicejacking recently.
The FCC said: “If your battery is running low, be aware that juicing up your electronic device at free USB port charging stations, such as those found in airports and hotel lobbies, might have unfortunate consequences.
“You could become a victim of “juice jacking,” yet another cyber-theft tactic.”
The FBI in Denver tweeted: “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.
“Carry your own charger and USB cord and use an electrical outlet instead.”
If in doubt, the Trend Micro experts have some advice for you.
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They say airports, hotels, charging kiosks, coffee shops, and train stations are places you need to watch out.
This is because cybercriminals know people are more likely to be looking for a charger in these places and will happily try out any they find.
If you can, it’s always best to carry your own charger.
You should also consider clicking to not trust any unknown devices if your phone sends you an alert wheny ou plug it in.
Giving random computers access to your device is risky largely due to the sheer amount of information people keep on smartphones.
This includes banking information and passwords for your most important apps.
It’s better to stay safe and invest in your own portable charger if you’re worried about untrustworthy public charging ports.
