Did you forget to pack your charging cable for your trip? It can be tempting to ask another person staying at your hostel or on your train to use their charging cable to get your phone battery back, however cybersecurity experts have recently reported this could allow potential hackers to take information from your phone and computer!
The Experts Weigh In
The Head of IBM Security, Charles Henderson, recently weighed in on the topic of cyber security while traveling. He said that borrowing a charging cable from a stranger is potentially dangerous, as they can implant malware that can hijack your electronic device. This means all of your information and data files can be taken off of your computer and expose it to viruses.
Are Charging Cables A Common Threat?
For now, Henderson says that this threat is not widespread. However, it is very cheap and easy to create a hacking charging cable. This means it could potentially be a widespread problem in the future.
What is however a current rising threat are USB outlets in public spaces, like at airports and metro stations. Millions of people take advantage of the charging stations during downtime while traveling, making them a growing target for cybercriminals. Through these devices they easily implant their malware and take information from innocent travelers unknowingly.
Vice President of X-Force Threat Intelligence, Caleb Barlow had a very interesting take on travelers’ high susceptibility to attacks. “Traveling has always been when people are more vulnerable. A few hundred years ago, the perpetrators were pirates or highwaymen. Now those criminals are still out there, but they’ve changed their methods to focus on digital attacks instead.”
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Even if you are not a top government official or work in a high security job, it is very important to keep your personal information safe from cyberhackers. When we travel we often carry more information than typical with us, such as passport information, where we are staying, and payment information. All of this data can be taken to use against you and even steal your identity. Stay safe and remember to pack your charging cable and a portable battery charger first thing next trip!
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