Watch the special report from Fox News 44 (BRProud.com) & Henry Overton, President of Turn Key Solutions in Baton Rouge:
With the widespread use of smartphones and other mobile devices, staying connected and charged up while on-the-go has become a necessity. While charging your device in public places like airports, coffee shops, and malls seems like a convenient option, it can also put your device at risk of being hacked or infected with malware.
This risk is known as “juice jacking.” In simple terms, juice jacking is a cyber-attack where a hacker installs malware on a device via a charging port. The attacker can then access personal data on the device, steal sensitive information, or even remotely control the device.
The term juice jacking was first coined in 2011 after researchers created a compromised charging kiosk to bring awareness to the problem.
Juice jacking is a growing threat, and it’s essential to understand how it works and how to protect yourself. Here are a few things you need to know:
How does juice jacking work?
Hackers can infect a charging station with malware, which can then be transferred to a device when it is plugged in. The malware can then access sensitive data, such as passwords, personal information, and financial details. The attacker may even be able to control the device remotely, accessing files or installing further malware.
How to protect yourself from juice jacking?
Use your own charger:
Avoid using public charging stations as they are often used by cybercriminals to steal data. Instead, carry your charger with you. Use your charger to charge your device in a safe place.
Invest in a portable charger:
If you are constantly on the go and need to charge your device, invest in a portable charger. These chargers are designed to charge your device without the need for a charging station. Power-only USB cables are designed to transfer power only and not data.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication:
Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Even if your password is compromised, a cybercriminal won’t be able to log in to your account without the second factor of authentication.
Use a data blocker:
Data blockers are small devices that prevent data exchange between your device and the charging station. They only allow the flow of power to charge the device but block any attempts to transfer data. These can be purchased online or at electronics stores.
Keep your device updated:
Make sure your device is running the latest operating system and security updates. These updates often include fixes for known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers.
Disable file sharing:
Disable file sharing on your device when connecting to an unfamiliar charging station. This will prevent any unauthorized access to your files and data.
Use a virtual private network (VPN):
When connecting to public Wi-Fi or charging stations, use a VPN to encrypt your data and protect it from prying eyes.
In conclusion, juice jacking is a real threat, and it’s essential to be vigilant and take precautions when charging your devices in public places. By following the above tips, you can protect yourself from being a victim of this type of cyber-attack. Stay cyber safe and always be mindful of your device’s security.
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