In today’s digital world, staying connected is a necessity. But have you ever plugged your phone into a public charging station at an airport, coffee shop, or mall? If so, you might have been at risk of juice jacking—a little-known cybersecurity threat that allows hackers to steal data or install malware through compromised USB charging ports.

Juice jacking occurs when cybercriminals tamper with public charging stations, embedding malicious software that activates once a device is plugged in. This can lead to data theft, unauthorized access, and even complete device takeover. The worst part? Victims rarely notice until it’s too late.

To protect yourself:

• Use a power adapter instead of USB ports, as wall outlets do not transfer data.
• Carry a portable charger to avoid reliance on public stations.
• Utilize a USB data blocker, which prevents data exchange while charging.
• Disable data transfer on your device before plugging into any public USB port.

As cyber threats evolve, awareness is key. Juice jacking may not be widely discussed, but it’s a growing risk in today’s interconnected world. Stay vigilant, charge safely, and protect your data from unseen cyber dangers.