TSA and FCC Urge Travelers: Be Cautious with Airport Charging Stations and WiFi
As travel picks up, cybersecurity risks at airports are becoming a growing concern. Authorities are now urging passengers to take extra precautions when charging their devices and using public WiFi to avoid falling victim to cyberattacks.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are advising travelers to be vigilant when charging their devices and connecting to WiFi at airports.
In a recent social media post, the TSA highlighted the importance of cybersecurity, warning that public USB charging ports can pose risks. The FCC refers to this threat as “juice jacking”—a tactic where cybercriminals install malicious software on public USB ports, potentially compromising any device plugged in. This malware can lock your device or steal sensitive information, such as passwords, which can then be used for unauthorized access or sold to others.
To stay safe, the FCC recommends several precautions:
- Use standard AC power outlets instead of public USB ports.
- Always travel with your own AC chargers, car chargers, and USB cables.
- Carry an external battery pack for backup power.
- Consider using a charging-only cable from a reputable source, which blocks data transfer while charging.
- If your device prompts you to “share data,” “trust this computer,” or “charge only,” always select “charge only.”
Additionally, the TSA advises against making online purchases or entering sensitive information while connected to public WiFi at airports, as these networks may not be secure.
By following these tips, travelers can help protect their devices and personal information from cyber threats while on the go.
