Android users warned of ‘charging bug’ that could allow hackers to ‘fry’ your phone

CYBERSECURITY experts have warned that criminals could hack into wireless chargers and damage your phone.

Researchers from the University of Florida even published a study into the attacks.

“Our research has identified new vulnerabilities in wireless charging systems, making them susceptible to intentional electromagnetic interference.

“These vulnerabilities facilitate a range of new attack vectors, allowing adversaries to manipulate the Charger and conduct a range of attacks,” the researchers said. wrote.

The experts have named the attack method VoltSchemer and described in detail how it works.

They say this has the potential to affect “commercial off-the-shelf wireless chargers.”

The VoltSchemer attack method is said to target two specific features of common wireless chargers.

First, the researchers focused on the way phones and wireless chargers communicate information.

Second, they took advantage of the lack of encryption that allows wireless chargers to charge almost any compatible phone placed on it.

These two factors would make wireless chargers susceptible to attacks from middlemen, Kaspersky said.

The researchers proved that they could create a malfunctioning power adapter that looks just like a USB wall socket.

They used this to send messages to a nearby wireless charger and manipulate how it behaved.

It was also possible to fry objects using the hacked wireless charger.

The researchers heated a paper clip to 280°C and were able to set documents on fire.

It’s worth noting that your wireless charger at home is probably safe.

If you’re concerned about using wireless chargers in public, try bringing your own portable charger or a plug that plugs into a power source.