SCARS Institute’s Encyclopedia of Scams™ Published Continuously for 25 Years
Juice Jacking – A Type Of Cybercrime
Juice jacking is a type of cybercrime where cybercriminals use a malicious USB charging port to steal data or install malware on a device. The term “juice jacking” was coined in 2011 by investigative journalist Brian Krebs after he conducted a proof-of-concept attack at DEFCON.
To execute juice jacking, cybercriminals install malware or other malicious software on a public charging station. When a victim plugs their device into the charging station, the malware is installed on the device and can then be used to steal data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information.
There are a few things you can do to avoid juice jacking:
- Avoid using public USB charging stations. If you must use a public charging station, be sure to inspect it carefully for any signs of tampering.
- Use a charging-only cable. Some cables allow data to be transferred as well as power. To avoid juice jacking, use a cable that only allows power to be transferred.
- Pay attention to warning messages. If you plug your device into a USB port and a prompt appears asking you to select “share data” or “trust this computer” or “charge only,” always select “charge only.”
- Keep your device’s software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect your device from malware.
If You Have Been Juice Jacked
If you think you may have been a victim of juice jacking, there are a few things you can do:
- Change your passwords. This includes your passwords for your email, bank accounts, social media accounts, and any other online accounts that you use.
- Scan your device for malware. There are many free and paid antivirus and anti-malware programs available.
- Report the incident to the authorities. This will help them track down the hackers and bring them to justice.
Juice jacking is a serious cybercrime, but it is one that can be avoided by taking some simple precautions. By following the tips above, you can help protect your device from being compromised.
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Important Information for New Scam Victims
- Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
- Enroll in FREE SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
- Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org or join SCARS for our counseling/therapy benefit: membership.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
A Note About Labeling!
We often use the term ‘scam victim’ in our articles, but this is a convenience to help those searching for information in search engines like Google. It is just a convenience and has no deeper meaning. If you have come through such an experience, YOU are a Survivor! It was not your fault. You are not alone! Axios!
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
Statement About Victim Blaming
SCARS Institute articles examine different aspects of the scam victim experience, as well as those who may have been secondary victims. This work focuses on understanding victimization through the science of victimology, including common psychological and behavioral responses. The purpose is to help victims and survivors understand why these crimes occurred, reduce shame and self-blame, strengthen recovery programs and victim opportunities, and lower the risk of future victimization.
At times, these discussions may sound uncomfortable, overwhelming, or may be mistaken for blame. They are not. Scam victims are never blamed. Our goal is to explain the mechanisms of deception and the human responses that scammers exploit, and the processes that occur after the scam ends, so victims can better understand what happened to them and why it felt convincing at the time, and what the path looks like going forward.
Articles that address the psychology, neurology, physiology, and other characteristics of scams and the victim experience recognize that all people share cognitive and emotional traits that can be manipulated under the right conditions. These characteristics are not flaws. They are normal human functions that criminals deliberately exploit. Victims typically have little awareness of these mechanisms while a scam is unfolding and a very limited ability to control them. Awareness often comes only after the harm has occurred.
By explaining these processes, these articles help victims make sense of their experiences, understand common post-scam reactions, and identify ways to protect themselves moving forward. This knowledge supports recovery by replacing confusion and self-blame with clarity, context, and self-compassion.
Additional educational material on these topics is available at ScamPsychology.org – ScamsNOW.com and other SCARS Institute websites.
Psychology Disclaimer:
All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.
While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.
Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here to go to our ScamsNOW.com website.
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