Abu dhabi: The UAE Cyber Security Council has issued a warning about the increasing risks associated with using unsecured public charging ports, revealing that 79 percent of travelers unknowingly expose their personal data to potential threats when charging their devices at such stations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Council highlighted the dangers of "juice jacking" attacks, where malicious software or hidden systems in public charging ports access personal data through automatic media or image transfer protocols. Ignoring security measures could lead to data and password theft or the installation of harmful software on mobile devices without the user's consent.
The Council further disclosed that 68 percent of companies have experienced data breaches originating from untrusted charging ports, affecting their digital infrastructure. Warning signs of exposure to such attacks include rapid battery drain, slow application performance, repeated system crashes, and unfamiliar symbols or messages on devices.
To counter these risks, the Cyber Security Council recommended several preventive measures, such as carrying a personal charger during travel, avoiding public charging stations, and rejecting any data-transfer requests while charging. Additional security steps include enabling two-factor authentication, utilizing biometric login features, and reviewing app permissions to prevent unnecessary access to sensitive data.
The Council also emphasized the need to verify the safety of installed applications, as some may harbor malicious software that can lead to personal data theft or financial fraud. It recently launched a weekly awareness campaign under the Cyber Pulse initiative to promote safe digital practices and provide guidance on countering cyber threats. This initiative is part of the UAE's broader efforts to build a secure cyberspace, enhance trust in the digital ecosystem, and raise cybersecurity awareness to ensure user safety and privacy.