Charging your mobile on the train, bus or airport will bring you problems

If you find yourself low on battery while on the go, you may be tempted to charge your phone using public charging stations, such as those found on trains, buses, planes, or at airports. However, this seemingly innocent act can pose risks to the security of your device. Therefore, we advise against using public charging stations whenever possible, and instead recommend carrying a fully charged phone, turning off your phone to conserve battery for emergency use, or bringing an external battery.

The most reliable option for charging your device in public places is to use an external battery. However, this may not always be feasible or you may have forgotten to bring one. Nonetheless, it is important to understand the unknown dangers associated with charging your device in public areas, and to avoid doing so whenever possible.

charging your phone

They can steal your data, money or break your mobile

It is not advisable to charge your mobile battery in public places because it can be unsafe due to various reasons. For one, USB ports in these areas may contain hidden dangers or be defective. Criminals may take advantage of the situation to obtain sensitive information from your device or install malware while it’s being charged. This can lead to the loss of private and financial data, theft of money, or even cause damage to your mobile.

Cybersecurity experts warn that hackers can easily steal your information or install a keylogger program that records your keystrokes on your mobile while it’s being charged. Additionally, studies show that cybersecurity incidents related to USB devices or ports are increasing. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid charging your phone in public places and carry an external battery or charge your device at home or in a trusted location.

charge mobile in public

Criminals can manipulate the charging port in public places by adding a small device that can obtain or enter data from your device, potentially compromising your privacy and security. Even if not all charging ports are compromised, the risk exists and it is important to be aware of it.

Additionally, charging your mobile on a faulty port can damage your phone or its battery. This can be especially dangerous if you leave your phone unattended or get distracted, as someone could steal it or it could get damaged without you noticing. It’s always safer to charge your phone at home or with a trusted external battery.

Hence, it is recommended to use an external battery to charge your mobile devices in public places. In case you don’t have one, there are affordable options available that offer fast charging with USB C and can charge multiple smartphones or one smartphone several times. One such product costs less than 40 euros, and currently, there is a 30% discount available, making it an excellent deal.

If the size of the external battery seems inconvenient, you can opt for a lightweight alternative that can provide at least two charges. It is portable and can be easily carried in a bag, backpack, or suitcase. Moreover, it is available at a much cheaper price, around 18 euros, with an ongoing offer. This highly recommended product can prove to be very useful in various situations.

Do this if you are away from home

Here are some additional safety tips you can follow while charging your mobile device in public places or while on the go:

Mobile compatibility with USB OTG

1. Use your own charging cable: Whenever possible, bring your own charging cable to use with the external battery or charging station. Using a third-party cable can increase the risk of damage to your device or even compromise your personal data.

2. Use a power bank with a built-in cable: Some power banks come with a built-in cable, which can be more convenient and safer to use than a third-party cable. This can also help reduce the risk of forgetting or losing your charging cable.

3. Keep an eye on your device: While your device is charging, keep an eye on it and do not leave it unattended. This can help prevent theft or damage to your device.

4. Use a reputable charging station: If you must use a public charging station, try to use one from a reputable source, such as an airport or a well-known brand. Avoid charging stations that appear damaged or have suspicious cables.

5. Charge your device before leaving home: The best way to avoid any risks associated with public charging is to ensure that your device is fully charged before leaving home. This can help you avoid having to use public charging stations altogether.