CALIFORNIA—The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office announced a fraud alert on Friday, November 8, alerting travelers to be careful when utilizing USB chargers in public places as a scam known as ‘Juice Jacking’ is underway, where criminals steal data.
Criminals load malware onto electric cables by plugging them in charging station outlets, and later infect the phones or electronic devices of users without their knowledge.
The malware may lock the device or export data and passwords directly to the scammer.
People that are traveling are informed to avoid using USB power charging stations in public places such as, hotels, airports, bus stations and train stations.
TIPS:
• Use an AC power outlet, not a USB charging station.
• Take AC and car chargers for your devices when traveling.
• Consider buying a portable charger for emergencies.
For more details follow @LADAOffice on Twitter and Instagram for up-to-date news and use #FraudFriday.
