FBI warns against using public phone charging stations

[RadishRose]

The FBI recently warned consumers against using free public charging stations, saying crooks have managed to hijack public chargers that can infect devices with malware, or software that can give hackers access to your phone, tablet or computer.

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.
https://www.cnbc.com/2023/04/10/fbi-says-you-shouldnt-use-public-phone-charging-stations.html

 

[Myrtle]

Good info. Thanks!

I don’t think I’ve ever used a public phone charger or even seen one, actually.

 

[PeppermintPatty]

Good info. Thanks!

I don’t think I’ve ever used a public phone charger or even seen one, actually.

Me either. I didn’t realize there was such a thing. Maybe I need to get out more.

 

[Disgustedman]

I've seen hospitals use them in waiting rooms. Bus stations now have them, as do railroads (Amtrak) but like everything good. Some scum use it for illegal acts....

 

[Dustbunny]

Thanks @RadishRose. They have them next to hubby's chemotherapy chair. Hope that at least there wouldn't be compromised.

 

[Jules]

Wow. TG, I always use my own cords or make certain my devices are well-charged.

This probably applies while on a plane too. Is nothing safe anymore?

 

[Gaer]

Oh! Thanks for telling us!

 

[hollydolly]

Thanks for that RR... I've never used public chargers but I've seen them many times, especially in the airport lounges

 

[Packerjohn]

Hey! I used a public charger at Toronto's Pearson Airport a few days ago. Nothing happened to my iphone. I will keep using using public charges. I'm not afraid. There sure is a lot of "fear mongering" going on in the media! I just live my life the way I want to and things are going really great!

 

[Tommy]

I've used them in the past in motel rooms - generally a usb port built into the base of a table lamp.

Thank you for the heads up @RadishRose . . . I'll stop doing that!

 

[Been There]

Norton calls it “Juice Jacking.” How they come up with these slang terms is beyond me.

 

[hearlady]

Just saw this. Thanks!

 

[Fyrefox]

I never charge my devices away from home, and pay cash at the gas station so as not to run the risk of hidden card skimmers at the pumps…

 

[hearlady]

Makes sense. I can plug my phone into my computer by USB and instantly download all the photos. Yikes!