We’ve all been there — scrambling to find a charger when our phone’s battery is running low, only to settle for using someone else’s cable. But this simple act of sharing a charger could expose you to significant cybersecurity risks. A warning from an ethical hacker sheds light on the potential dangers that come with using unknown charging cables.

Ryan Montgomery, an ethical hacker known for identifying security flaws in company networks, has recently warned the public about the risks of using charging cables from unknown sources. Montgomery shared his findings on Instagram, cautioning that charging cables that seem harmless could actually pose significant cybersecurity threats.

How Hackers Use Chargers to Access Your Data

In a demonstration, Montgomery plugged an ordinary-looking cable into a new computer. Despite appearing to be just a regular charging cable, it gave him full access to the device. With a few simple actions, Montgomery was able to control the computer remotely from his phone. “Never trust a cable that’s not yours,” he stated in the viral video, which has amassed over 400,000 views.

This phenomenon, known as “juice jacking,” occurs when a corrupted USB charging port or cable is used to infect your device with malware. The malware can steal sensitive data, lock your device, or even give hackers complete control over your device. Public charging stations, such as those found in airports and shopping malls, are known hotspots for this type of attack. Montgomery’s advice? Avoid using USB charging stations whenever possible.

To protect against these threats, cybersecurity experts recommend using a USB data blocker. This small device acts as a shield, preventing data from being transferred while still allowing your device to charge. Montgomery advocates for using these blockers, especially when traveling or using public charging stations. However, experts caution that not all data blockers are created equal. Some counterfeit versions have emerged on the market, which could still allow hackers to access your data.

What the FBI Says About Public Charging Stations

The FBI has also issued warnings about using free charging stations in public places, including airports, hotels, and shopping centers. According to the FBI’s official website, these stations can be tampered with to install malware on your devices without your knowledge.

To ensure your devices remain secure, experts suggest using your own charging cable, avoiding public USB charging stations, and opting for a wall outlet or portable charger when possible. If you need extra protection, a legitimate data blocker is an affordable and effective tool to keep your information safe from hackers.

The next time you find yourself in a situation where you need a charger, remember the risks that come with sharing cables. By taking simple precautions, such as using your own charger or investing in a USB data blocker, you can keep your personal data safe from cybercriminals.