TSA issues warning about smartphones, devices at the airport. Here is what to avoid

In the wake banning portable chargers from checked luggage, TSA has a warning for travelers — and their devices. Anyone who uses USB chargers to power electronics should exercise extreme caution when inside an airport, the TSA says.

Here’s what you should know before your next flight.

TSA issues warning to travelers who use public USB ports in airports

In a Facebook post, TSA warned that USB ports, commonly used to charge cellphones, laptops and other portable devices, can present serious risks, making your sensitive information more vulnerable to hackers and scammers. Passengers are urged to be aware of the risks involved when using the airport’s public USB charging ports.

TSA warns passengers not to plug phones or devices directly into a USB port when inside an airport because of a cyber-theft scam called “juice/port jacking.”

Using the free USB chargers can allow hackers to access your device, bank account information and more. Bad actors can load malware onto public USB charging stations that are commonly found in airports and hotel lobbies, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

What is ‘juice jacking?’ TSA warns of airport USB, Wi-Fi scams

“Juice jacking” can happen when bad actors install malware into public USB ports, hoping to acquire sensitive data or hijack a device.

“Malware installed through a corrupted USB port can lock a device or export personal data and passwords directly to the perpetrator,” the FCC states. “Criminals can then use that information to access online accounts or sell it to other bad actors.”

Similarly, using the airport’s free Wi-Fi can carry cybersecurity risks. TSA says to avoid using the airport’s free public Wi-Fi, especially for any online purchases. “Do not ever enter any sensitive info while using unsecured Wi-Fi,” TSA states.

How to avoid ‘juice jacking’ USB port scams at airports

Instead of using a public USB charging port, TSA says passengers should use a TSA-compliant power brick or battery pack and plug in their devices through that. The FCC provided additional tips to help prevent falling victim to “juice jacking”:

• Using AC power outlets can help you avoid any potential risks. Pack AC, car chargers, and your own USB cables with you when traveling.

• Carry an external battery.

• Consider carrying a charging-only cable, which prevents data from sending or receiving while charging, from a trusted supplier.

• If you plug your device into a USB port and a prompt appears asking you to select “share data,” “trust this computer” or “charge only,” always select “charge only.”

If you believe you are a victim of a cybercrime or fraud, the FBI recommends filing a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or contacting the airport or local authorities.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: TSA warning: How to protect phones, devices from hacking at airport