TL;DR: Juice jacking is when a compromised public USB charging port or cable is used to install malware or steal data from your device while it charges. Use your own charging cable and a wall outlet instead of a public USB port where possible, or use a "USB data blocker" adapter that allows charging but blocks data transfer.
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Juice jacking is when a compromised public USB charging port or cable is used to install malware or steal data from your device while it charges.
How Juice Jacking Works
A public charging station (at an airport, cafe, or hotel) is compromised or fitted with a malicious cable that, when connected, can access your device's data or install malware — exploiting the fact that USB connections carry both power and data.
Warning Signs to Watch For
This is difficult to detect visually. The safest assumption is to treat any public charging port or unfamiliar cable as a potential risk.
How to Protect Yourself
Use your own charging cable and a wall outlet instead of a public USB port where possible, or use a "USB data blocker" adapter that allows charging but blocks data transfer.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading What Is Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see What Is Man-in-the-Browser Attacks? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Juice Jacking?
Juice jacking is when a compromised public USB charging port or cable is used to install malware or steal data from your device while it charges.
How does Juice Jacking typically work?
A public charging station (at an airport, cafe, or hotel) is compromised or fitted with a malicious cable that, when connected, can access your device's data or install malware — exploiting the fact that USB connections carry both power and data.
What are the warning signs of Juice Jacking?
This is difficult to detect visually. The safest assumption is to treat any public charging port or unfamiliar cable as a potential risk.
How can I protect myself from Juice Jacking?
Use your own charging cable and a wall outlet instead of a public USB port where possible, or use a "USB data blocker" adapter that allows charging but blocks data transfer.
What should I do if I think I’ve encountered Juice Jacking?
Stop responding immediately, do not click any links or share information, and report it to the appropriate authority. If money or personal information was already shared, act quickly to secure your accounts and report the incident.