Cybersecurity Tip of the Week – Charging Devices with Unknown (Public) Chargers – Don’t Do It!

Would you use a phone charger in a public place labeled as a "charging station?" Depends on how desperate you are?

By using unknown chargers or USB points, you may be a victim of juice jacking without even knowing it. Hackers can leave chargers or tamper with public USB charging points in places like cafés, hotels, airports, or train stations.

The moment you plug in, you think you're charging your phone, but in reality, you could be giving cybercriminals direct access to your data. They can:

• Copy personal files, photos, or contacts
• Steal login details and financial information
• Install malware that tracks your activity long after you unplug

It sounds far-fetched, but it happens more than you think. Something as innocent as topping up your battery in a public space can create a serious security risk.

How to stay safe?

• Always use your own charger and plug into a mains socket
• Carry a portable power bank for backup
• If you must use a public USB port, consider a USB "data blocker"

Cyber threats aren't always sophisticated or high-tech; sometimes they're hiding in plain sight, waiting for us to make a quick, convenient choice.

Stay alert. Protect your data.

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