Tweet from the FBI warning against the use of public USB ports.
The FBI Denver office recently warned Americans against using USB charging stations in public places like malls and airports, as cyber criminals are using them to spread malware. While the FBI did not provide specific examples of the threat, the warning has generated a lot of buzz, and in today's blog, we'll explore the truth behind the warning.
Electrical outlets with USB ports are becoming increasingly common in public spaces, including airports and malls. Unfortunately, cybercriminals could install a microchip or computer behind these ports to copy or transmit data from devices that people plug into them. Although it's not an easy task, the threat is real, and people should take precautions.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has also provided tips to protect against the threat of malware. They suggest avoiding public charging stations unless necessary and bringing your own charging brick or battery pack. Additionally, you can use charging-only cables that do not allow data to pass over them or ensure that you select the power-only option when using public charging ports.
Electrical outlets with USB ports are becoming increasingly common in public space
While it may be tempting to use public charging stations when your battery is low, it's best to err on the side of caution. Bring your own charging devices, be aware of the risks, and educate others about the threat of malware through public charging stations.
Remember, the FBI does not issue warnings without good reason, and their warning about the risk of malware through public charging stations is not to be taken lightly. Take precautions to protect your devices and data from cybercriminals.
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