iPhone and Android owners warned about ‘juice jacking’ billing error that downloads malware directly to your device

Travelers with smartphones have been warned against an “underreported” ‘juice jacking’ attack that could occur in hotels.

‘Juice jacking’ occurs when unsuspecting iPhone or Android owners charge their devices via a USB port that has been tampered with – and hotels aren’t the only place you’re at risk.

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These dubious USB ports can be used to physically connect hackers to your phone, where they can access your personal data such as card details, addresses and names.

Consumers have long been warned against using USB cables and charging points in public places such as airports, translations, bars and restaurants.

This is because, as the founder of cybersecurity company TorGuard, Ben Van Pelt, says: “They are all vulnerable.”

However, despite hotels being considered more “private” than “public”, Van Pelt told The Sun: “The risk should not be underestimated.

“Hotels are often a prime target for cybercriminals due to the constant flow of guests with sensitive data, and USB ports are not the only source of risk.”

Ten years ago, hotels in Asia were targeted by a spyware and malware-spreading campaign that targeted business hotel visitors via the hotel’s Wi-Fi network.

“There was a major incident back then known as the DarkHotel Attacks,” Ven Pelt explained. “Where a group of hackers targeted high-profile individuals staying at luxury hotels across Asia, exploiting weaknesses in the hotels’ Wi-Fi networks to install malware on guests’ devices.”

While it might be tempting to ditch your travel adapters and just rely on hotel USB ports, Van Pelt insisted against it.

“If you plug your phone into a USB port, there is a risk of hackers installing malware on your device,” he said.

It’s “difficult” to know if your hotel room’s USB charging port is risky, but Van Pelt reckons “there could be signs.”

“If the charging port appears damaged, tampered with or out of place, avoid using it,” he said.

“If you notice unusual behavior on your device while charging, such as unexpected app installations or slow performance, it may be infected.”