TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the summer travel season nears, cybersecurity experts are warning about the risks of airport charging hubs. They offer advice on how travelers can guard against 'juice jacking'—cyber attacks via USB ports.
Experts have pinpointed three main risks with these charging services. These include malware being installed through outlets to steal account details, charging traps at USB stations that extract sensitive data or lock devices, and data leaks through transmission cables.
Yu Hui-sheng, the general manager of a cybersecurity firm in Taiwan, emphasized the importance of the information stored on mobile devices. "Your phone might contain your online banking details, hotel and flight mileage, and points accumulated on luxury goods websites. These are essentially money, which can be directly stolen," Yu explained.
Chou Chien-chuan, head of another cybersecurity firm, advises travelers to bring personal chargers and use only devices from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). "If you are using those devices, you have to purchase a USB or Type-C data blocker with transmission function. Therefore, when you plug in the USB outlets, it will protect your data from leaking," Chou noted.
The Taoyuan International Airport has responded to these concerns, stating that no incidents have occurred and that it is instructing airport security and maintenance contractors to remain vigilant for suspicious devices.
