What is juice-jacking? Here's how hackers are using USB to hack your phone

Cybercriminals exploit the USB charging ports commonly available in public spaces to carry out malicious activities.

Edited By: Mayank Kasyap

Last Updated : 30 March 2024, 07:32 PM IST

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New Delhi: Indian government has issued a cautionary advisory urging the public to avoid using public USB charging ports found in places like airports, cafes, hotels, and bus stands. This warning comes amidst growing concerns over the prevalence of the "USB charger scam" across the country.

Understanding the threat

Cybercriminals exploit the USB charging ports commonly available in public spaces to carry out malicious activities. This tactic, known as "juice-jacking," poses a significant risk to unsuspecting individuals who rely on these ports to charge their electronic devices.

What is juice-jacking?

Juice-jacking involves the manipulation of public USB charging stations by hackers to steal sensitive data or infect connected devices with malware. When individuals connect their smartphones or other gadgets to compromised charging ports, they inadvertently expose themselves to potential cyber attacks.

Safety tip of the day: Beware of USB charger scam.#indiancert #cyberswachhtakendra #staysafeonline #cybersecurity #besafe #staysafe #mygov #Meity #onlinefraud #cybercrime #scam #cyberalert #CSK #cybersecurityawareness pic.twitter.com/FBIgqGiEnU
— CERT-In (@IndianCERT) March 27, 2024

Risks associated with juice-jacking

By plugging their devices into infected USB stations, users may fall victim to various cyber threats, including:

Data Theft: Hackers can intercept personal information stored on the connected device, such as passwords, financial data, and contact details.
Malware Installation: Malicious software may be deployed onto the device, allowing cybercriminals to monitor activities, disrupt operations, or access sensitive files.
Ransomware Attacks: In severe cases, devices may be encrypted by ransomware, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid.

Tips for safe charging

To safeguard against the USB charger scam and juice-jacking attacks, consider the following precautions:

Use Electrical Outlets: Whenever possible, opt for traditional electrical wall outlets instead of public USB ports.
Carry Personal Cables: Carry your own charging cables or power banks to minimize reliance on public charging stations.
Device Security: Secure your device with passwords or biometric authentication, and avoid pairing with unknown devices to prevent unauthorized access.
Turn Off Devices: Consider turning off your device while charging to reduce the risk of exploitation by cybercriminals.

Reporting cyber crime incidents

In the event of encountering cyber fraud or suspicious activities, individuals are encouraged to report incidents promptly. They can utilize the official website www.cybercrime.gov.in or contact the authorities at 1930 to seek assistance and address cybersecurity concerns.

By staying vigilant and adopting proactive measures, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with the USB charger scam and ensure the safety of their personal information and digital devices.

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What is juice-jacking? Here's how hackers are using USB to hack your phone