FBI Warns Against Using Public USB Charging Ports

By: Cindy Medina

Photo by Mike Winkler on Unsplash

Federal officials warn the public to avoid using USB charging stations - such as those found at airports, hotels, and shopping malls. It is believed that USB ports can be altered to introduce malware or tracking software onto personal devices. This cyber-theft tactic is known as “juice jacking.”

The Denver FBI tweeted the official warning:

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. pic.twitter.com/9T62SYen9T

— FBI Denver (@FBIDenver) April 6, 2023

It is advised that travelers use their own wall chargers and USB cords and connect their devices directly to an electrical outlet. If you forgot your wall charger at home, a second option would be to use a portable power bank or your laptop to recharge your devices.

Lastly, never grant permission to an unknown source when you are prompted to do so. The permission pop-up looks like this on iOS:

Photo Courtesy of Apple, Inc.