Travelers using free USB charging stations at airports, hotels, or malls risk having their passwords, bank details, and personal data stolen by hackers, security experts and the FBI warned this week. A tactic called "juice jacking" allows criminals to install malware or spyware on devices through tampered charging ports, locking phones and siphoning sensitive information.

　"Even if the station looks safe, public USB ports can bypass your phone’s security settings," said Jae Ro, a tech executive at SIGNAL+POWER. Hackers exploit the dual function of USB cables—which transfer both power and data—to intercept information, later selling it on the dark web.

　The FBI reiterated its warning on social media, urging people to avoid public chargers entirely. While unaltered stations pose risks too, experts stress that wall outlets or personal power banks are safer alternatives.

　Ro shared three key tips: Carry your own charger, use standard wall plugs instead of USB ports, and disable data-transfer modes if public stations are unavoidable.

　The alert follows rising concerns over low-tech cybercrimes targeting travelers. "Your phone isn’t just charging—it’s potentially leaking everything," Ro added.