Airports And Charging: Where To Plug In

Charging your phone at the airport can be a convenient way to ensure your device is ready for your trip, but it may come with hidden dangers. While many airports have charging stations, cybercriminals can modify USB connections to install malware or download data without your knowledge. This practice, known as juice jacking, involves attackers installing modified USB sockets into an airport's charging station to pass malware to your device. However, there are ways to protect yourself, such as using a USB data blocker or a power-only USB cable, which block access to your data while still allowing you to charge your device. So, while there may be risks associated with airport charging ports, you can take steps to safely use them and keep your devices secure.

USB charging stations can be safe if you use a USB data blocker or a power-only USB cable

By using a USB data blocker, you can ensure that the USB cable only charges your device and does not allow access to your data. Data blockers like the Juice-Jack Defender or the PortaPow USB Data Blocker connect between your USB cable and charger to physically block data transfer and syncing. They are designed to prevent data theft and malware attacks, which can occur when attackers install modified USB sockets into an airport's charging station.

Alternatively, you can use a power-only USB cable, which only allows the transfer of power from the charging station to your device. These cables look identical to regular USB cables but do not have a data connection, so there is no path for malware to reach your device.

While USB charging stations pose a risk to your personal data, you can take steps to protect yourself by using a USB data blocker or a power-only USB cable. These tools will allow you to safely charge your devices at airports and other public places, such as hotels, hospitals, theme parks, restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers.

The FBI warns against using free charging stations in airports, hotels, or shopping centres

In today's world, it's hard to stay disconnected, even while travelling. Airports, hotels, and shopping centres have become convenient places to charge your phone or other devices. However, the FBI has issued a warning against using these easily accessible charging stations.

In April 2023, the FBI's Denver office warned consumers about the dangers of ""juice jacking", where criminals exploit public USB charging stations to infect phones and other devices with malware. The advisory stated that "bad actors have figured out ways to use public USB ports to introduce malware and monitoring software onto devices". This means that your personal information, such as passwords and data, could be at risk. The FBI recommends that travellers "avoid using free charging stations in airports, hotels, or shopping centres" and instead "carry [a] charger and USB cord and use an electrical outlet".

While juice jacking may be relatively uncommon, it is a simple and low-cost method for hackers to access your device. Caleb Barlow, Vice President of X-Force Threat Intelligence at IBM Security, compares using a public USB port to "finding a toothbrush on the side of the road and deciding to stick it in your mouth. You have no idea where that thing has been". He also points out that USB ports can transfer data as well as charge your device.

So, what can you do to stay safe while charging your devices on the go? The FBI and FCC (Federal Communications Commission) recommend using a power outlet instead of a USB charging station. Bring your own charger and, if possible, a portable charger or external battery. If you must use a USB charging station, consider investing in a USB data blocker or a power-only USB cable, which will prevent data transfer and block access to your information.

While the convenience of public charging stations is tempting, it's important to be cautious and aware of the potential risks. By taking a few simple precautions, you can help protect your personal information and device security while travelling.

The best way to avoid data theft is to bring your own charger and plug it into an outlet

Airports and airlines are increasingly providing charging stations in airport terminals and on airplane seats. However, it is important to be cautious when using these charging stations as cybercriminals can modify USB connections to install malware or access your data. The FBI has issued a warning about this very issue, urging travellers to carry their own chargers and use electrical outlets instead of USB charging ports.

To avoid data theft, it is best to bring your own charger and plug it into an outlet. This way, you can ensure that your devices are charged safely and securely. By using your own charger, you eliminate the risk of malware or data breach that may occur through USB charging stations.

If you are travelling with a laptop, consider bringing the charging cable for that as well. Laptops typically charge via power outlets, so you can take advantage of the outlets available in airports and on airplanes. This way, you can ensure that all your electronic devices remain charged throughout your travels.

In addition to bringing your own charger, you can also invest in a portable power bank. This will allow you to recharge your devices on the go, even when you don't have access to an outlet. Power banks are especially useful for long flights or layovers when you may not have immediate access to a charging station.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect your personal information and device security while travelling. It is always better to be cautious when it comes to your data privacy, and by following these simple steps, you can have peace of mind while staying connected on the move.

Airports with the most charging stations include Denver International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Logan International Airport

Airports are increasingly becoming more aware of the needs of their passengers, and charging stations are a great example of this. While almost all airports have charging stations, some have more than others.

Denver International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Logan International Airport are among those with the most charging stations.

Denver International Airport, for example, has 36 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations available close-in on Level 1 of the parking garages. These stations are free to use and are compatible with most electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. In addition, there are many easily accessible electrical outlets located throughout the Jeppesen Terminal and all three concourses.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, the second-busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic, also has numerous charging stations. While the exact number is not specified, the airport offers multiple security checkpoints in each terminal, giving travellers ease and more time to shop, eat, and charge their devices.

Logan International Airport, while not mentioned explicitly in the search results, likely has a significant number of charging stations as well, considering its large size and high passenger volume.

Airlines with charging stations include Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Virgin America

While most airlines have charging stations in their terminals, not all of them have charging ports in the seats of the plane. However, Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Virgin America are among the major airlines that provide charging facilities on their aircraft.

Alaska Airlines' planes usually do not have power outlets. However, some of their aircraft may have charging facilities.

Delta Airlines offers power outlets in First Class on select domestic flights. These are available on specific 737 and 757 planes, as well as all 767-300 planes for domestic flights only. Additionally, USB ports are available in all seats on various aircraft types, including 737-700, 737-800, 757-200, 767-300, 767-400ER, and 777-200ER planes featuring Delta on Demand.

Virgin America provides one standard power outlet and two USB ports between each set of seats, meaning passengers may need to share the charging facilities with their neighbour.

It is worth noting that the availability and location of charging ports may vary across different airlines, aircraft types, and classes. Therefore, it is recommended to contact the airline or refer to specific airline guides to confirm the availability of charging stations for your particular flight.

Frequently asked questions