Tech expert reveals why you should always avoid the USB sockets in hotel rooms
A TECH expert has warned holidaymakers about the dangers of charging their phones and devices in hotel room USB charging ports.
It might seem convenient to leave your plug adaptors at home and just make use of the hotel’s USB ports, but doing that might not be safe.
Cybersecurity expert from NordVPN Adrianus Warmenhoven has warned that not using a plug in your hotel room could lead to others gaining access to personal information, including bank details.
Hackers can modify public places’ charging cables to install
malware on phones, to perform an attack called juice jacking.
This type of attack allows the hackers to steal users’ passwords, credit card information, addresses, names, and other data.
Adrianus explained that there are ways to block those attacks, but said that sockets are the safest way to charge devices.
He said: “Safe device charging on your way to your vacation spot might be challenging because you must carry a power bank or USB data blocker, but hotel rooms always have a socket.
“Usually, it’s the safest way to charge your devices.”
Adrianus also warned about using the hotel Wi-Fi, which is another way hackers can steal personal information.
In fact, every public internet connection has an increased risk of being used by cybercriminals, including cafes and restaurants.
Hackers can use the Wi-Fi to steal travellers’ passwords and personal information in two ways.
One is to connect to the hotel’s Wi-Fi and install malicious malware.
The second is to create a so-called “evil twin” – a fake, unprotected Wi-Fi hotspot with an unsuspicious name like “Guest Wi-Fi” or “Free Hotel Wi-Fi” – and steal private information this way.
Adrianus said: “To avoid being hacked through hotel Wi-Fi, travellers must take a few steps.
“First, ask the person at the reception desk to give the exact name and password for the provided Wi-Fi to avoid connecting to an ‘evil twin’ network.
“Second, use a VPN service to encrypt your data and prevent third parties from intercepting it.
“Finally, it is always a good idea to enable a firewall while using public Wi-Fi.”
To keep your personal information safe, it’s a good idea to learn how many different ways hackers get access to your details.
NordVPN recommend staying vigilant while on holiday to prevent cybercriminals from ruining your trip abroad.
Adrianus continued: “It’s crucial to understand that the willingness of cybercriminals to intrude on your privacy or steal your data does not depend on your presence in the office or your holiday plans.
“Hackers can use a hotel’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities in several ways to reach you even in your room.
“So while you’re on vacation and using the internet connection of where you’re staying, you should be cautious and manage cybersecurity risks.”
Travellers have also been warned about using public USB ports in airports for the same reason.