The old expression “nothing free is ever really free” holds water even when it comes to phone charging stations. Free public phone charging stations can seem like the gift that keeps giving, but in reality, they can pose some pretty risky security issues that are worth having on your radar. The next time you pass a free charing station, even if you’re dipping below 20 percent battery, it’s worth holding on until you get to a safer, known Wi-Fi connection. Here’s why you should “think twice” before using a free charging station, according to experts.
Hackers Have Cracked The Public Charging Station Code
The number one reason why you should avoid public charging stations is because hackers have figured out how to infiltrate these systems and gain access to your phone and data. The FBI office in Denver tweeted that it’s a better idea to “carry your own charger and USB cord and use an electrical outlet” than to use public charging stations in places like airports, malls, and hotels.
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Beware Of ‘Juice Jacking’
In 2021, the Federal Communications Commission also issued a warning about something called “juice jacking” and wrote in an issued statement:
“Malware installed through a dirty USB port can lock a device or export personal data and passwords directly to the perpetrator. Criminals can use that information to access online accounts or sell it to other bad actors.”
That means your passwords to confidential information such as bank accounts could be easily compromised. Protect yourself to the best of your ability by carefully selecting how and when you charge your device — and by avoiding public Wi-Fi charging stations.
