PHOENIX — They may be convenient, but they could also cost you.
The FBI and FCC are warning people of hackers using public USB charging stations to get into your phone or tablet and steal your passwords and bank account information.
Whether in your hotel room or at the airport, any place where anyone can plug their phone into a USB is at risk.
Michele Bush, the owner of Loehrs Forensics in Phoenix, said once someone plugs their phone directly into a public USB port, it only takes about two minutes for someone to get ahold of your private information through what authorities call "juice jacking."
"It is a very normal function, so therefore, it can be very easy for hackers," Bush said.
People will get a prompt on their phone after plugging in that will ask them if they will allow the device to access their device, similar to when people plug their phone or tablet into a computer, Bush said. If people click "allow," the hackers get in, but even unlocking your device is enough. She recommends unplugging your device immediately.
The cable itself can also lead to problems. If you find a random cable already plugged into one of these USB ports - don't use it.
“Being aware of what type of cable you're plugging into your phone will determine what kind of access you're giving somebody,” Bush said.
Some phones are also more susceptible to hacking. Bush said Androids are historically more vulnerable to hacking. While iPhones have improved security measures, that doesn't mean they are invulnerable to hacking.
The best way to avoid this happening, according to the FCC, is to use AC power outlets instead of USB ports. Also, use a cable that only charges and doesn't allow transferring data.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: El FBI emite una advertencia a todas las personas sobre el llamado 'juice jacking'
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