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【Information Security Advocacy】Beware of Public USB Charging Stations! You Might Be Falling into a “Charging Trap”

publish date : 2025-05-29 update date : 2025-05-29

⚠️Beware of Public USB Charging Stations! You Might Be Falling into a “Charging Trap”⚠️
Juice Jacking Information Security Risk Alert

What is Juice Jacking (Charging Trap)?

When you use USB charging stations in public places such as airports, hotels, transportation hubs, or shopping malls, if the device has been maliciously tampered with, it may, without your knowledge:

  • Steal data from your device (e.g., photos, contacts, documents)
  • Install malicious programs (e.g., trojans, spyware, ransomware)
  • Remotely control your mobile device

This is known as a “Juice Jacking” attack, which takes advantage of the fact that USB cables support both charging and data transfer. When you plug in to charge, unauthorized access to your device may occur.


How to Protect Yourself?

Avoid Using Public USB Charging Stations

  • Use your own charger and power outlet
  • Carry a power bank

Use a USB Data Blocker (USB Condom)

  • These devices block data transmission while allowing charging only, preventing data leakage.

Choose "Don't Trust" When Connecting via USB

  • Whether you're using an iPhone or Android device, when prompted "Trust this device?", select “Don't Trust” or “Charge Only” for unknown sources.

Keep Your System and Security Software Updated

  • Regularly update your mobile OS and security apps to reduce risks.
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