79 Percent Of Travellers Exposed To Data Theft Through Unsafe Public Charging Ports

The UAE Cyber Security Council has highlighted the dangers of using untrusted public charging ports. They revealed that 79% of travellers unknowingly risk their personal data when charging devices at unsecured stations. These ports might have malicious software or hidden systems that can access personal data through juice jacking attacks, exploiting automatic media or image transfer protocols.

In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Council warned that ignoring safety measures and using unsafe charging ports could lead to data theft or harmful software installation on mobile phones without users' knowledge. They noted that 68% of companies have experienced attacks from untrusted charging ports, resulting in data breaches and digital infrastructure compromises.

The Council identified several signs indicating a device might be compromised, such as rapid battery drain, slow app performance, frequent system crashes, and unfamiliar symbols or messages appearing on the device. These symptoms suggest potential exposure to malicious activities through public charging stations.

To mitigate these risks, the Council recommended carrying a personal charger while travelling and avoiding public charging stations whenever possible. They also advised rejecting any data-transfer requests during charging to prevent unauthorised access to personal information.

The Council emphasised enabling two-factor authentication and using biometric login features like fingerprint or facial recognition for added security. Reviewing app permissions is crucial to ensure no unnecessary access is granted to photos, messages, or contacts, which could be exploited by malicious software.

Verifying the safety of installed applications is vital as some apps may contain harmful software allowing hackers to steal personal data or spy on users. This risk extends to financial fraud and theft of bank card and online account information.

Cyber Pulse Initiative

The Cyber Security Council recently launched a weekly awareness campaign under the Cyber Pulse initiative. This campaign aims to increase public awareness of safe digital practices and provide guidance on countering various cyber threats. It is part of the UAE's efforts to build a secure cyberspace that supports rapid digital transformation while enhancing trust in the digital ecosystem.

This initiative seeks to raise cybersecurity awareness among all segments of society, ensuring user safety and privacy in an increasingly connected world. By promoting safe digital habits, the UAE aims to protect its citizens from evolving cyber threats.

With inputs from WAM