The FBI has issued a public service announcement, specifically mentioning airports, malls, and hotels, alerting travelers about the risk of "juice jacking."  This nefarious practice involves hackers manipulating public charging ports to install malware on unsuspecting devices.  Once infected, your phone, laptop, or tablet could become vulnerable to data theft, password exposure, and even remote control by criminals.

Why the sudden warning?  While cyber threats evolve constantly, "juice jacking" isn't new.  However, the FBI seems to be highlighting a rise in incidents, possibly linked to increased travel during the holiday season.  Moreover, with newer technologies like wireless charging gaining traction, bad actors might be shifting their focus to traditional USB ports, catching unsuspecting users off guard.

Some best practices to follow are:

• Purchase a power plug for your cable; this is the safest option!  You know your equipment is clean and won't expose you to hidden dangers.
• Consider investing in a portable power bank.  These handy devices allow you to charge your devices on the go without relying on public stations.
• Enable data blocking:  Some devices offer a setting to block data transfer while charging.  Check if yours has this feature.
• Use a data blocker:  Invest in a small device that plugs between your cable and the charging port, physically preventing data transfer.

Also remember that public Wi-Fi, while convenient, comes with hidden dangers.  Free internet hotspots can expose your data and devices to an array of risks.  Therefore, be vigilant and avoid sensitive activities such as online banking, accessing medical records, or sending confidential information.  Wait until you're on a secure network.

Convenience shouldn't come at the cost of your digital security.  By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can keep your devices safe and enjoy your travels with peace of mind.

Stay safe, stay charged, and happy travels!