Unseen Dangers: How Your Phone Charger Can Compromise Your Data

Smartphones are everywhere these days, and so are the chargers that keep them alive. But did you know that your charger could be a sneaky spy? It's true. There are ways to trick your phone into giving away its secrets, and it's all done through a technique called ChoiceJacking. This method can bypass the safety measures in both Android and Apple devices. How does it work? Well, the charger acts like a keyboard or a host, sending fake inputs to your phone. It's like having an invisible person typing on your screen, clicking buttons, and even approving actions you never OK'd. The trickiest part? The charger can switch roles, acting as both a keyboard and a host. It uses a standard feature in USB-C connectors called USB Power Delivery. This feature lets devices share power, but in this case, it's used to swap data roles. Once the charger is in control, it can ask for file access and then trick your phone into saying "yes" through a hidden Bluetooth keyboard. It's a clever hack, and it works fast—about 25 to 30 seconds. Once connected, the charger can read and write files on your phone until you unplug it. This sneaky method works on most phones, except for one with a unique operating system. The Vivo Funtouch OS doesn't fully support the USB Power Delivery protocol, so it's safe from this particular attack. But for the rest, it's a wake-up call. Your charger could be more than just a power source; it could be a gateway for hackers. So, what can you do to stay safe? First, be careful where you charge your phone. Avoid public charging stations, and stick to trusted chargers. Second, keep your phone's software up to date. Manufacturers often release patches to fix security holes. Lastly, consider using a data blocker. These small devices prevent your phone from sharing data while charging. It's an extra layer of protection that could save you from a headache later on. The bottom line? Your phone charger might not be as innocent as it seems. Stay alert, and keep your data safe.