The TSA has recently sent out an advisory that Hackers have a "sneaky way" of stealing your data at Airports.
I mentioned this a few years ago in one of my articles here.
Those convenient USB charging stations located in Gate seats, charging stations, etc. allow you to charge your device while waiting for your flight. Some thoughts on these:
- You have no idea what is on the other end of that connection. Could be a hacker breaking your phone to steal your data.
- You should never trust these power connections, period.
- You should carry your own battery pack to recharge your phone and/or tablet. (around $30 on Amazon)
- If you do need to charge your phone through that USB device, there are data blockers available to only allow power to your device(s). They are cheap and cost around $10 with some as high as $20. These devices have a USB male plug to plug into the seat jack and a female USB plug to plug your charging cable into it.
- Never leave your device unattended. That shop 10 steps away is enticing, but never leave anything unattended.
- If you have to charge your device in the airport, use your power adapter! No data goes through it.
- Never use the Wireless Charging. This gives direct contact to your device to charge and also steal your data.
As you can see, there are various seemingly benign ways a Hacker can steal data from your phone.
Be diligent and alert! Stay Cyber Secure.