Hidden tech traps at airports can hijack your phone and steal everything before your flight even boards
- Advertisement -
Related Posts
- Advertisement -
- TSA warns public USB ports can be loaded with malware that quietly sets your data without detection
- “Juice Jacking” -attacks can record SMS messages, contact lists and even test attacks of your device
- Free WiFi cannot cost anything, but it can be the entrance gate to lose your identity
While millions of Americans are preparing for the summer holidays, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a Timely cyber security alert warning Travelers about criminal tactics that are designed to steal personal information.
The risk includes tampered USB charging stations at airports and fake public Wi-Fi networks.
The first, known as ‘Juice Jacking’, sees cyber criminals install malware on public USB charging stations – as soon as a user connects his phone, the compromised port can quietly send malware or extract data from the device.
Public USB havens and free Wi-Fi risks
The warning comes in the midst of increased concerns about identity theft and digital surveillance as more people rely on connected devices while traveling.
Although some skeptics claim that widespread, confirmed cases are rare, the theoretical risk remains a concern for cyber security professionals.
When a USB port operates both data and power functions, an attacker can change the circuit or insert a small data-sniffing implant in the terminal, allowing them to harvest contact lists, SMS messages and even test attacks, depending on the vulnerability of the device.
To reduce exposure, the TSA recommends that travelers use their own wall adapters or Power benches, or simply avoid direct USB connections through non -confident sources.
Another tactic marked by the TSA includes free public Wi-Fi networks.
These so -called “honeypot” networks seem legitimate, often named after the airport or airline, but are controlled by criminals.
Once connected, the attacker can perform a man-in-the-middle attack, whereby all data that a traveler sends is intercepted, including credit card numbers, passwords and business registrations.
In more advanced cases they can inject fake web pages that mislead users to reveal references.
This attack can cause the strongest passwords to slide and identity theft, therefore it is important for users to have their virtual private networks (VPNs) and to ensure that their devices are protected with the Best protection of the best identity theft software.
If you have to use a public Wi-Fi, the TSA warns that you should never “enter sensitive information during the use of unsecured WiFi.”
This advice corresponds to broader recommendations that are often found in Dear Antivirus And Endpoint protection Guides, which often emphasize the safety of physical devices in addition to digital security aids.
Maybe you like it too
- Advertisement -
