FBI Warning: M-Banking Thieves Hide in Phone Charging Stations

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia — The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning regarding security risks associated with using free mobile phone charging facilities in public areas. Although they appear convenient, these public charging stations can potentially serve as a means for cybercriminals to harm users.

The FBI explains that hackers have found ways to insert malicious software or malware into these facilities. Through this software, perpetrators can gain illegal access to various electronic devices, from smartphones and tablets to laptops.

Quoting CNBC International, the public is urged to avoid free charging stations available at airports, hotels, and shopping centres. As a preventive measure, users are advised to carry their own charging devices or USB cables to safeguard their device data.

“Avoid using free charging stations at airports, hotels, or shopping centres,” states CNBC International, citing a tweet from FBI Denver, as quoted on Sunday (29/3/2026).

“Criminals have found ways to use public USB ports to insert malware and monitoring software into devices. Bring your own charger and USB cable and use an electrical outlet instead,” it adds.

The FBI offers similar guidance on its website to avoid public charging facilities. However, the bulletin does not provide examples of consumer losses from such hijacking.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has also warned about this “juice jacking” since 2021. At that time, the FCC cautioned that consumer devices with USB cables could be hijacked via software that then extracts usernames and passwords.

“The Commission advises consumers to avoid such public facilities,” it emphasises.