Here’s Why You Should ‘Think Twice’ Before Using A Free Charging Station, According To Experts

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. 

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.