
The government has cautioned citizens to exercise vigilance when utilizing public phone charging stations, particularly in locations such as airports, cafes, hotels, and bus stands. This advisory comes amid mounting concerns regarding the “USB charger scam,” an approach employed by cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting individuals who rely on these stations while on the move.
The USB charger scam presents a significant threat, taking advantage of the trust placed in public charging ports by individuals. Cybercriminals employ a tactic known as “juice-jacking” to compromise these ports and launch attacks on connected devices.
Juice-jacking allows hackers to pilfer sensitive data or implant malware onto the devices of unsuspecting users. When individuals connect their gadgets to compromised ports, they unwittingly expose themselves to potential data theft, malware installation, or device hijacking.
To mitigate such risks, several proactive measures can be considered:
- Opt for Electrical Wall Outlets or Carry Personal Cables/Power Banks: Prioritize the use of traditional electrical outlets when available, or carry your own charging cables or power banks to avoid reliance on public USB stations.
- Secure Your Device and Avoid Pairing with Unknown Devices: Implement security features such as PIN or password locks on your devices, and refrain from connecting to unfamiliar or untrusted devices to prevent unauthorized access or data compromise.
- Consider Charging Your Device When Turned Off: Charging devices while powered off reduces exposure to external threats, thereby minimizing the risk of cyber attacks.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your smartphone’s software to patch security vulnerabilities and remain protected against emerging threats.
- Install Malware Detection Software: Consider installing malware or virus detection software to enhance security against malicious attacks.
In the event that you become a victim of the USB charging scam, it is imperative to take immediate action. Report any incidents by contacting 1930 or filing a cyber fraud report at https://www.cybercrime.gov.in. Prompt action is essential to address any potential consequences of falling victim to the scam.