This month, the UAE Cyber Security Council warned that charging your phone at unsecured public USB ports in airports, malls or hotels could expose your personal data to hackers via “juice jacking.” 🔌⚠️
According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), 79% of travelers using untrusted charging stations in the UAE face potential data breaches. Malicious software hidden in some ports can automatically install malware or steal passwords the moment you plug in.
Watch for these red flags that signal your device may be compromised:
- Rapid battery drain
- Sluggish app performance
- Repeated system crashes
- Unfamiliar icons or pop-up messages
To stay safe, try these quick tips:
- Carry your own charger cable and a power bank
- Use a USB data blocker (aka “USB condom”) or a power-only cable
- Plug into wall sockets or trusted outlets only
- Enable strong passcodes and keep software updated
Whether you’re charging up at Dubai International Airport or a café in Abu Dhabi, these simple steps will help keep your data—and selfies—secure! 🛡️
Reference(s):
UAE warns travelers of rising data-theft risks at public chargers
cgtn.com
