Juice Jackers are Jerks!

In April, Photo Managers from around the world got together to discuss all aspects of Photo Management. Start Here, will participate in the Virtual conference in May! The Keynote Speaker shared information about “juice jacking” and why we should never charge our devices via a public USB port without ‘protection’ (like a FireWire USB Condom). If you have not heard of juice jacking – you are not alone. This is where bad actors get creative steal your data or load malware to your device from public charging stations.

As we get ready for summer travel, please consider some of the recommendations from the FCC on how to stay safe. This way you only come home with memories and not headaches.

• When in public, use an AC power outlet. Avoid using public USB charging stations.

• When traveling, bring your own USB cables, AC, and car chargers.

• Invest in an external battery or portable charger (and keep it charged! This is not only important for summer travel but helpful during winter storms).

• Consider carrying a charging-only cable, which prevents data from sending or receiving while charging.

• If you plug your device into a USB port and a prompt appears asking you to select "share data" or “charge only,” always select “charge only.”