Getting caught in public with a flat phone battery can be a hassle. Luckily, some public places (like airports) have set up charging stations that allow you to juice up your dying device. Just plug in your charger cable, connect your phone, and you'll be charging in no time. Handy, right?
SummaryHow does it work?Avoiding a juice jacking attackDo not use public chargersCharging-only USB cablesUSB converterPersonal chargersJuice juiceUnfortunately, while convenient for you, it's also convenient for people with bad intentions! These charging stations can be compromised in such a way as to access your phone without your permission. From there, it can either transfer malware to the phone or steal data. This is the case with “juice jacking”, and it is a problem that will prevent you from always trusting public charging stations when you see them.
If you really must use an on-the-fly USB charging station, you can use a USB-only charging cable instead. These cables prevent USB from transferring data over USB, so any malicious code in the charging stations cannot access your phone. You will benefit from all the advantages of a public charger without any of the associated risks. A good example of a charge-only cable is the PortaPow.
You can also get small devices that convert regular USB cables into charge-only cables that go by the crude nickname "USB condom". The idea is to plug it into the port and then plug your USB cable into the device itself. The device prevents data transfer, so you can charge your phone without having to worry. A good example of such a device is the SyncStop. There's even a guide on how to make your own!
If you want to take things into your own hands, you can pack a personal charger or a portable battery. When you run out of charge, just plug your phone into one and you'll be back in action in no time. It also has the added benefit of not having to frantically search for a power outlet as your phone slowly dies on you!
Along with the convenience of being able to use charging stations, there is also the convenience of manipulating them to steal data or transfer malware to connected devices. Stay away from public charging stations, use a power outlet, get a USB-only charging cable or device, or just carry your own charging methods to prevent yourself from becoming a target.
Have you trusted public charging stations in the past? If yes, do you do it now? Let us know below in the comments.
