By Hannah Russo, Senior Correspondent
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a national advisory urging travelers to avoid using public USB charging ports at airports due to growing cybersecurity concerns. Released on May 25, 2025, the warning centers on a technique known as “juice jacking,” in which cybercriminals exploit USB ports to install malware or extract sensitive data from unsuspecting users’ devices.
The advisory recommends that passengers carry personal portable chargers in their carry-on luggage to mitigate risks, reinforcing broader cybersecurity and aviation safety efforts currently in place at airports across the United States.
What Is Juice Jacking?
Juice jacking occurs when hackers tamper with public USB charging stations to gain unauthorized access to connected devices. These attacks can allow the malicious transfer of software onto smartphones or tablets, enabling remote access to personal data such as emails, passwords, contact lists, and banking credentials.
When a user plugs a device into a compromised USB port, they may unknowingly trigger a data exchange. While the device appears to be charging, malware could be silently installed or private information exfiltrated. Once malware is embedded, it can operate in the background, often undetected, collecting sensitive data or providing remote control access to hackers.
TSA Travel Recommendations
To protect against this threat, the TSA advises travelers to use TSA-compliant personal portable chargers and avoid public USB ports. Power banks, particularly those containing lithium-ion batteries, should be carried in hand luggage, not in checked baggage, due to fire safety regulations.
Portable chargers must remain easily accessible, and some airlines are implementing new policies requiring passengers to store them visibly. This enables flight attendants to identify potential hazards, such as overheating or fire risks, and respond quickly if necessary.
Travelers are also encouraged to check devices for signs of malfunction, such as swelling, unexpected heat generation, or sudden performance drops, which may indicate battery issues or malicious activity.
Portable Charger Safety on Flights
The increase in lithium battery incidents on flights has led to stricter regulations concerning portable electronic devices. Lithium batteries, while generally safe, pose a known risk of overheating and combustion under certain conditions, particularly in the high-pressure, high-altitude environment of a plane’s cargo hold.
Consequently, both the TSA and the Federal Aviation Administration have updated safety protocols for carry-on devices. Passengers must now ensure that all portable battery packs are kept within the cabin and are not stored in overhead bins during use. Any devices showing signs of failure should be immediately reported to the cabin crew.
Tips to Stay Safe While Charging
To ensure device and data safety while traveling, follow these cybersecurity best practices:
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Carry a Personal Power Bank: Choose a reliable, TSA-approved portable charger to power your devices on the go.
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Avoid Public USB Ports: Stick to standard electrical outlets or use your own wall adapter.
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Use USB Data Blockers: These small devices physically block data transfer, allowing only charging.
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Set Devices to ‘Charge Only’ Mode: When connecting to unfamiliar sources, select “charge only” to disable data transfer.
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Keep Software Updated: Ensure your device’s operating system and security patches are current to defend against known vulnerabilities.
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Inspect Charging Stations: Never use USB ports that appear damaged or unsecured.
Growing Awareness Among Travelers
This latest TSA warning underscores the evolving nature of digital threats in public spaces. As travel resumes post-pandemic and tech-savvy travelers rely increasingly on mobile devices, awareness of cybersecurity risks is more critical than ever.
Although confirmed cases of juice jacking remain relatively rare, the potential for significant personal and financial harm has prompted federal agencies to act preemptively. The TSA’s alert aligns with a growing movement to raise awareness about digital hygiene, especially in high-traffic environments like airports.
Conclusion
With the summer travel season in full swing, airport terminals will see millions of passengers on the move. The TSA’s advisory serves as a crucial reminder to be proactive about personal cybersecurity. Simple actions—like bringing your own charger, avoiding suspicious ports, and keeping your devices up-to-date—can make a significant difference in protecting your information on the go.
