ROMULUS, Mich. – As millions of Americans prepare to take to the skies for Thanksgiving, cybersecurity experts are warning travelers about a potential threat lurking in airport charging stations.
The practice known as “juice jacking” could put personal information at risk when charging devices at public USB ports.
Understanding the Threat
“Those ports don’t only just transfer power. They also transfer data. And they can transfer data both ways,” said Matt Loria, CEO of IT and cybersecurity company Auxiom.
Through compromised USB charging stations, criminals can potentially download malware onto connected devices, accessing personal information or online accounts.
While the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) notes that there are no confirmed instances of juice jacking occurring, they acknowledge it has been demonstrated as technically possible. This hasn’t stopped travelers from feeling concerned about the potential risk.
“It makes me feel vulnerable and it’s a little scary,” said Arminda Scott, a traveler at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).
Another traveler, Anita Mallette, recounts her own experience with cybercrime.
“I hate it because somebody took my information before and tried to get me for $20,000.”
Airport Security Measures
Major airports are taking these concerns seriously.
The Wayne County Airport Authority confirms that all public charging stations at DTW are power-only and not connected to any data networks.
Similarly, New York and New Jersey Port Authority airports, which operates the JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia locations, conduct regular inspections of charging stations for signs of tampering, according to a spokesperson.
Beyond Juice Jacking: Wi-Fi Risks
Cybersecurity experts warn that unsecured Wi-Fi networks pose an even greater risk than compromised charging stations.
“Bad actors can actually be spoofing that Wi-Fi. Maybe instead of DTW visitor, it says DTW underscore visitor, and it’s actually a fake Wi-Fi network,” Loria cautions.
Protecting Yourself While Traveling
To stay safe while traveling, experts recommend several precautions:
- Use AC power outlets instead of USB ports
- Carry your own portable battery pack
- Pack charging-only cables that prevent data transfer
- Keep your device’s software updated to receive security alerts
- Be vigilant about which Wi-Fi networks you connect to
- Consider using a VPN for additional security
“During the holiday season, especially during travel time when you’re in unknown areas, on unknown networks, just be as vigilant as you possibly can and just stay safe out there,” advises Loria.
For travelers concerned about cybersecurity, the simplest solution might be what Ron Taig, a security-conscious traveler recommends.
“Portable batteries, they’re cheap, get them on Amazon or another company for eight to $15, use it, it’ll pay for itself,” he said.