Shruti Suman
The government has issued a warning to the public regarding the use of phone charging stations in public places like airports, cafes, hotels, and bus terminals. It’s advised to be wary of the “USB charger scam.”
Here’s what you should know:
The threat: Cybercriminals exploit USB charging ports in public locations such as airports, cafes, hotels, and bus terminals for nefarious purposes.
Juice-jacking: Connecting devices to compromised USB stations can expose users to juice-jacking cyberattacks. Juice jacking involves cybercriminals using public USB charging points to steal user data or implant malware onto connected devices.
When unsuspecting users plug their devices into these compromised ports, cybercriminals can access data or install malware on the connected device. This could lead to personal information theft, malware or ransomware installation, and even device encryption with ransom demands.
Tips for staying safe:
Opt for electrical wall outlets or carry your own cables or power banks.
Secure or lock your device and avoid connecting to unknown devices.
Consider charging your phone while your mobile is turned off.
In case of any cyber fraud, report the incidents at www.cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.
