Britons issued warning over charging their phones at airports

Travellers are being urged to think twice before plugging their phones into airport USB charging stations, as tech experts warn of the dangers lurking behind these convenient power sources.

Berk Baryaktar, CEO of Esimatic, has highlighted the significant risks associated with public USB ports, which can be hotspots for cybercriminal activity.

Cybercriminals have been known to compromise these charging stations to access personal data or install malicious software on unsuspecting users' devices in a process known as "juice jacking". Baryaktar explained: "Public USB charging stations, commonly found in airports, can be compromised by cybercriminals looking to access personal information stored on your device."

He further warned that such attacks could lead to malware installation or interception of data during transfer, putting sensitive information like emails, financial details, and login credentials at risk. To avoid falling victim to these security breaches, which can result in identity theft or substantial financial loss, Baryaktar recommends using portable chargers instead.

He emphasised: "The consequences of such security breaches can be severe, ranging from identity theft to significant financial loss."

Baryaktar insists that carrying a portable charging device is the safest way to keep your phone powered up while on the move, reports the Express.

He explained: "Having your own power bank allows you to recharge your phone safely without relying on public charging stations, thus minimising the chances of falling victim to malicious hackers."

Baryaktar goes on to recommend the activation of security settings such as USB-restricted mode on smart devices.

This safety feature stops data from being transmitted over USB, providing a shield of security, especially when you find yourself needing to use a public charger.

By turning on this function, your chances of someone gaining unauthorized access to your information whilst charging in public are much slimmer.

Baryaktar stated: "Regular updates ensure that your phone has the latest security patches and bug fixes, making it harder for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities."

He also pointed out that while charging stations can pose a danger, public Wi-Fi networks, like those often found in airports, can be a hotbed for cyber threats.

To stay safe, Baryaktar suggests limiting web use on open networks to non-sensitive browsing and sidestepping any financial or personal account activity.

He added: "For added protection, using a virtual private network (VPN) can help encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from prying eyes.

"By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safer travel experience and protect your personal information from cyber threats."

Baryaktar concludes: "Being mindful of your device's security not only helps you avoid data breaches but also allows you to focus on enjoying your journey with peace of mind."