Centre has warned the public against USB charger scam and advised the public to exercise caution while using USB charging ports in public places.
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology said USB charging ports at public places are being misused by cyber criminals for malicious activities. “Cyber-criminals may use USB charging ports installed at public places like airports, cafés, hotels and bus stands for malicious activities. Charging your electronic device at such infected USB charging stations may make you a victim of juice-jacking cyber attack,” the agency tweeted.
CERT said cyber criminals through juice jacking, can install malicious apps; encrypt devices and demand ransom to restore data and they could even steal data from devices.
The agency advised the public to be cautious while using public charging stations or portable wall chargers. It also advised the public to use electrical wall outlets for charging mobile devices and carrying personal cable and power bank. “ Lock your mobile device and disable pairing with a connected device. Try to charge your phone when it is in switched off state,” it said.
