Charging your phone at the airport? Security expert says you might be inviting hackers in

Traveling often involves juggling numerous tasks, from ensuring you have all your documents to checking flight times. However, one common action many travelers overlook is charging their phones at the airport, a practice that could potentially expose them to serious security risks. According to a security expert, the convenience of charging stations at airports comes with hidden dangers that travelers should be aware of.

Risks of Charging Stations at Airports

In today’s digital age, our phones serve as essential tools for everything from storing boarding passes to staying entertained during long waits at the airport. With the prevalence of public charging stations, it’s easy to plug in and keep devices powered up before a flight. However, as per the Mail Online, Jae Ro, a security expert from SIGNAL + POWER, cautions against using these charging points, citing significant security risks.

He explains that while charging your phone may seem harmless, it can expose you to the risk of malicious software being installed on your device. These charging stations, although convenient, can be tampered with to inject malware onto your phone. “This malware can lurk undetected, quietly stealing sensitive information like passwords and banking details,” Ro warns. This hidden threat is a major concern for travelers relying on their devices for critical information.

The Dangers of ‘Juice Jacking’

One of the most significant threats associated with airport charging stations is a technique known as “juice jacking.” This occurs when hackers install malware on a corrupted USB port, allowing them to either lock your phone or steal personal data directly from it. Ro explains that the data and power streams that pass through the same cable on smartphones make it easier for cybercriminals to exploit this vulnerability.

“Once infected, your phone becomes vulnerable not just at the airport, but wherever you take it,” Ro adds. This means that even after leaving the airport, your device could remain compromised, leaving you susceptible to identity theft or data exploitation.

Data Exposure Risks

Even if the charging station appears to be free from tampering, there is still the risk of unintentional data exposure. Charging stations not only supply power but can also transfer data between devices. Ro points out that although phones typically prompt users to select between “Charge only” or “Transfer files” modes, this security feature is often bypassed at public charging stations.”As a result, your device could be vulnerable to data interception or exploitation. This stolen data can later be used for identity theft or sold on the dark web,” Ro warns. This highlights the dangers of trusting public USB ports with sensitive personal information, especially when smartphones are increasingly used to store everything from bank account details to flight tickets.

FBI Warning on Public Charging Stations

The risks associated with public charging stations have been recognized by authorities as well. In 2024, the FBI issued a warning urging the public to avoid using free charging stations in airports, hotels, and shopping centers. Their warning underscores the potential dangers posed by these public charging points, encouraging travelers to seek alternative methods to charge their devices securely.

How to Stay Safe

To avoid falling victim to these risks, Ro advises travelers to invest in portable chargers. These chargers provide a safe alternative to public charging stations and ensure that your device remains secure. Additionally, travelers should manually disable data transfer options on their devices before connecting them to any charging port.