A security expert is warning travellers of the hidden dangers of charging their phones at the airport.
After hours of mindless scrolling, checking directions, and contacting friends and family while on a trip, a lot of people find themselves low on phone battery and heading to the convenient USB port charging stations once they reach their terminal.
However, while these convenient stations may seem like the ideal solution, many travellers have been caught off guard as hackers have figured out ways to load them up with viruses.
Jae Ro, from plug adapter manufacturer SIGNAL + POWER, has explained the three reasons why you should never do it.
After hours of mindless scrolling, checking directions and contacting friends and family while on a trip, a lot of people find themselves heading to the convenient USB port charging stations once they reach their terminal (stock image)
1. Malware risk
According to Jae, the first reason to never charge your phone at the airport is because ‘the convenience comes with a huge security risk’.
He explained: ‘These ports can be tampered with to install malicious software (malware) on your device.
‘This malware can lurk undetected, quietly stealing sensitive information like passwords and banking details.’
Last year The United States intelligence and security service put out a message via its official Denver twitter account. It stated: ‘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.’
2. Juice jacking
Next, the expert warned of a technique called ‘juice jacking’.
This is where malware can be installed through a corrupted USB port, locking the device or exporting all of your personal data and password directly to the perpetrator.
It works because when it comes to smartphones, the power supply and data stream pass through the same cable.
Jae said: ‘Once infected, your phone becomes vulnerable not just at the airport, but wherever you take it.’
While these convenient stations may seem like the ideal solution, many travellers have been caught off guard as hackers have figured out ways to load them up with viruses
3. Data exposure
Finally, charging your mobile device at the airport can lead to unintentional data exposure.
Even if the charging station has not been compromised, you could still be at risk.
The expert revealed: ‘Charging stations can transfer both data and power.
‘While phones prompt users to choose between “Charge only” and “Transfer files” modes, this protection is often bypassed with charging stations.
‘As a result, your device could be vulnerable to data interception or exploitation. This stolen data can later be used for identity theft or sold on the dark web.’
As well as issuing the warning, Jae has also shared some advice on how you can safely charge your phone at the airport if you do find yourself in a situation where you need to.
The first tip is to invest in a portable charger so you don’t need to rely on public charging stations.
Secondly, stick to trusted sources and only use your own personal charger or borrow one from someone you trust – wall outlets are also better than USB ports.
He adds: ‘If you must use a public station, disable data transfer on your phone before connecting it. This guarantees that only power flows through the cable.
‘Also consider ‘Data Blocker’ Cables – A USB data blocker prevents data transfer between your device and the charging station, allowing only power transfer.’
