Centre Warns Citizens Not To Use Public Phone Charging Stations. Here’s Why

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The Center has warned citizens against using phone charging portals at public places like airports, cafes, hotels and bus stands.

It has asked people to be careful of the “USB charger scams”.

Here’s what you need to know:

The threat: Cybercriminals abuse USB charging ports in public places such as airports, cafes, hotels and bus stops for malicious purposes.

Juice jacking: Charging devices on infected USB drives can leave users vulnerable to ‘juice jacking’ cyber attacks. Juice jacking is a cyber attack strategy in which cyber criminals use public USB charging stations to steal user data or install malware on the devices connected to them.

When unsuspecting users connect their devices to such compromised charging ports, cybercriminals can siphon data or install malware on the connected device. This can result in theft of personal data, installation of malware or ransomware, and even ransom device encryption.

Safety tip of the day: Beware of USB charger scams.#indiancert#cyberswachhtakendra#staysafeonline#cybersecurity#besafe#pay attention to your safety#mygov#Meity#onlinefraud#cybercrime#scam#cyberalert#CSK#cybersecurityawarenesspic.twitter.com/FBIgqGiEnU

— CERT-In (@IndianCERT) March 27, 2024

How to stay safe

• Prefer electrical outlets or bring personal cables or power banks.
• Secure or lock your device and avoid pairing with unknown devices.
• Consider charging your phone when it is turned off.

Report cyber fraud incidents via www.cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.