It has become common for Muslims that smartphones are inseparable companions in our daily lives. We rely on them for every small and big task, from communication to managing our work and organizing our daily schedules. Of course, this increasing dependence has made keeping our phones charged a vital necessity that cannot be ignored. From this perspective, it has become very common to use new types of electrical sockets. In addition to the AC power socket (220 or 110 volts), sockets that provide a USB port for charging phones, tablets, and other devices have become widespread. These sockets can be found in relatively modern homes, as well as in airports, café corners, shopping center shelves, and even in public transportation. At first glance, these outlets may seem like a magical solution to the problem of battery depletion in critical moments, allowing the user to carry only a USB cable instead of the larger charging head. However, while this socket simplifies the lives of many, it is not without risks. It is best to completely avoid using it in public places unless absolutely necessary. Let us explain the reasons below.
Risks of Public Charging Ports
Everything now depends on USB ports
In the recent past, phones usually included more than one port to meet different needs, with a charging port, another for connecting cables for data transfer, and a third for connecting headphones. Today, all these functions have been integrated into a single multi-use port, often of the USB-C type. This development, despite its many benefits in terms of simplicity and ease of use, has opened the door to significant security risks that were not previously considered. The port we use to charge our phones could also be used to hack and steal information or install malicious apps silently, meaning that any connection to an untrusted charging port could jeopardize your privacy and the security of your sensitive data.
It is true that public charging ports are still a relatively new idea, and their use is still limited, especially in public places. However, the lack of awareness that they can be maliciously exploited does not mean they are safe. There have been several recorded cases that have shown that public charging ports can be turned into deadly tools in the hands of hackers to breach our devices and steal our personal data, as explained in the following paragraphs.
How are Public Charging Ports Exploited?
There are many ways these ports can be exploited in public places, with one of the most dangerous being the so-called Juice Jacking attacks. In these attacks, the charging port is modified to transfer data from the connected device without the user’s knowledge. In this case, the attacker can steal photos, contacts, messages, and even passwords and other sensitive information even if the phone is locked with a passcode or password. The risk does not stop at data theft; some modified ports can install malicious applications on your phone as soon as it connects. These apps may remain dormant for some time before starting to collect data or spy on your activities in the background, making them extremely difficult to detect.
Among the more complex methods is what is known as Man-in-the-Middle attacks. In this case, the hacker intercepts communications between your device and any online service, potentially leading to theft of sensitive information such as login credentials or banking data.
The talk about theoretical risks may seem far-fetched to some, but history is witness to many examples of hacks that occur through public charging ports and their inherent dangers. In the famous Black Hat conference in 2013, a demonstration of a fake iPhone charger was presented that could install malware on the connected phone within seconds, causing panic among security experts. This was recorded as one of the first known cases of phone hacking through charging ports, as the charger looked completely normal but actually opened the door to exploiting the victim’s device for different purposes.
Later, in 2015, the renowned security researcher “Samy Kamkar” presented a concerning innovation called “Key Sweeper”. This device appeared as a regular USB cable but contained an advanced chip inside that could intercept and store data transmitted from nearby wireless keyboards, including passwords and usernames, then send them to the hacker. The device even included an internal battery that operated for some time even when disconnected from power.
Additionally, there are many tools designed to hack smartphones, unlock their locks, and automatically steal their contents. These tools may disguise themselves as phone chargers intentionally left in a place like a hotel or replace built-in chargers in modern electrical sockets to appear entirely harmless.
USB Cables Also Pose a Hidden Threat
Public charging ports are not the only danger to be cautious of, as USB cables used for charging can also be a source of threats that endanger your phone’s security. A notable example is the innovation showcased at the 2019 DefCon conference, known as the “O.MG Cable”. This cable, which looks like a regular USB cable, contains an advanced chip inside that allows the attacker to remotely control the connected device, opening the door to limitless possibilities of hacking and spying. When connected to a computer, the cable may present itself as an input device, enabling the hacker to control the device remotely using a virtual mouse and keyboard. From there, anything is possible, from stealing files to installing malicious software for later exploitation.
While the mentioned cable is still in the prototype stage and there is no confirmed information about its actual use, it serves as a clear indication that cables are not entirely secure. In fact, a modern laptop that charges via a USB-C port, for example, could be compromised through a malicious cable or a specially designed charging port targeting it.
How to Protect Yourself from These Risks?
It all starts with awareness and caution, the first golden rule is to avoid using any public chargers or wall charging ports whenever possible. Make sure to carry the chargers and cables you need with you wherever you go in case of the worst-case scenario. While these attacks are still rare today, they have a huge potential in the future with the increasing popularity of public charging ports and most users being unaware of their risks, in addition to the likelihood of many undiscovered security vulnerabilities. It is also important to be aware of electrical sockets available when staying at a place like a hotel, as hacking tools disguised as chargers may be left behind by a previous guest, making them tempting to use, or there could be a hidden tool connected to an invisible or out-of-sight socket.
If you find yourself in need of using these ports, consider using a “Data Blocker”. This small device acts as a protective shield, allowing only electric current to pass and preventing any attempt to transfer data. Most modern smartphones also provide an option called “charging only” when connected to a USB port. Enabling this option prevents any data exchange, making the charging process safer.
Moreover, public charging ports are not the only thing you should be cautious of, as public Wi-Fi networks available in many restaurants, cafes, and public places also pose a threat. If you are compelled to use them, we recommend following the instructions in our previous topic on tips for safely using public Wi-Fi networks on any device.
In conclusion, security awareness has become an urgent necessity that cannot be ignored. While public charging ports offer a quick and convenient solution to battery depletion, the associated risks may be too costly to imagine. Always remember that caution is better than regret, especially when it comes to the security of your digital data and personal privacy.
