Security expert warns why you should never charge your phone at an airport

It's time to start remembering to pack your portable chargers and not using airport sockets, according to a security expert.

Sadly, much of life is now governed by the small rectangles which are often glued to most of our hands these days.

And that includes our phones often now holding our boarding passes and other details for our flights, making it pretty essential they're well charged before we jet off to whatever destination we're going to.

Should you be doing a long haul flight - or swiping apps closed too frequently - it's more than likely you're going to need to top up your battery at some point during your trip, but a security expert is warning against doing it via the airport's own charging sockets - and for good reason.

Remember to pack your portable chargers next time (Getty Stock Images)

Last year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a warning against using public phone charging stations, including those found at airports.

A warning on the FBI's official website states: "Avoid using free charging stations in airports, hotels, or shopping centres."

And Jae Ro, from plug adapter manufacturer SIGNAL + POWER, has also since weighed in.

While these charging stations are simple and easy to use, Jae warns 'the convenience comes with a huge security risk,' with the expert telling the Mail Online: "These ports can be tampered with to install malicious software (malware) on your device. "This malware can lurk undetected, quietly stealing sensitive information like passwords and banking details."

A technique used by hackers known as 'juice jacking' is another reason why you don't want to hook your phone up to a charging station at the airport.

This involves malware installed through a corrupted USB port which locks your device or even exports all of your personal data and password directly to the perpetrator.

The power supply and data stream on smartphones pass through the same cable, allowing hackers to take control of your personal information.

Don't get tempted (Getty Stock Images)

"Once infected, your phone becomes vulnerable not just at the airport, but wherever you take it," Jae told the publication.

Furthermore, charging your mobile phone at an airport can lead to unintentional data exposure.

And even if the charging station hasn't been tampered with, your device very much remains at risk.

"Charging stations can transfer both data and power," Jae said. "While phones prompt users to choose between 'Charge only' and 'Transfer files' modes, this protection is often bypassed with charging stations.

"As a result, your device could be vulnerable to data interception or exploitation. This stolen data can later be used for identity theft or sold on the dark web."

So, remember the portable charger next time eh? Better safe than sorry.

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• Security expert warns tourists why they should never charge their phone at an airport