The UAE Cyber Security Council has issued a strong warning about the growing dangers of using untrusted public charging stations, revealing that 79% of travellers unknowingly expose their personal data to cyber threats through unsafe charging points.
Speaking to Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Council highlighted the rise of juice jacking attacks, in which malicious software embedded in public charging ports can access personal data by exploiting automatically activated media or image transfer protocols. These attacks can lead to data theft, password compromise and the installation of harmful software on mobile devices without users’ knowledge.
The Council also noted that the threat extends beyond individuals: 68% of companies have experienced cyberattacks linked to untrusted charging ports, resulting in data breaches and compromises to critical digital infrastructure.
Warning Signs of a Possible Juice Jacking Attack
Users are urged to stay alert to indicators such as:
Rapid battery drain
Slow performance of applications
Frequent system crashes
Appearance of unfamiliar icons, symbols or pop-up messages
Preventive Measures Recommended
To reduce risk, the Council advises:
Carrying personal chargers and avoiding public charging points
Rejecting any data transfer prompts during charging
Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA)
Using biometric security features like facial recognition or fingerprints
Regularly reviewing app permissions
Ensuring installed applications are from trusted sources
The Council stressed that some malicious apps can enable hackers to access personal data, spy on users, or commit financial fraud—including theft of bank card details and online account information.
To strengthen public cyber awareness, the UAE Cyber Security Council has launched a weekly awareness campaign under the Cyber Pulse initiative, offering guidance on digital safety practices. The initiative supports the UAE’s commitment to building a secure digital environment that keeps pace with rapid technological transformation while safeguarding user privacy and trust.