Why you shouldn't share your smartphone charging cable

Cybersecurity experts warn against using someone else's chargers or public charging stations. Hackers can use them to steal your data or install malware.

This is what the New York Post warns about.

What's wrong with third-party chargers?

Professional hacker Ryan Montgomery has warned about the risks associated with charging cables of unknown origin. In his Instagram video, which has garnered over 400,000 views, he demonstrated how a «ordinary» charging cable can give cybercriminals full access to your device.

Montgomery explained that such cables look like ordinary ones and charge gadgets properly. However, inside they can contain hardware that allows hackers to control the victim's device remotely. Hacker urges never to trust a  cable that doesn't belong to you.

How to avoid hacking through a charger?

To protect your data, experts advise using USB data blockers that block information transfer via the cable, allowing only the device to be charged. However, it is important to beware of fake blockers, which themselves can be tools for hackers, warns ZDNet.

Public charging stations in airports and shopping malls are particularly dangerous. Cybercriminals manipulate such stations to steal data through charging ports. 

To avoid risk, experts recommend:

• Always use your own cable and charger.
• Charge devices through an outlet, not public ones ports.
• Carry a portable battery or USB data blocker.