‘USB condom’ prevents device hijackings at rogue ports

By   ISBuzz Team
Writer , Information Security Buzz | Sep 16, 2013 04:51 am PST

Worried about plugging your device into an unfamiliar port and exposing it to horrible viruses or trojans? Simply put this “USB condom” between the male and female ends before docking and the only thing transmitted will be safe, clean electricity.

Security-conscious individuals are probably aware that plugging your phone or drive into an unfamiliar computer or USB charging jack presents something of a risk. There are ways to hijack devices, surreptitiously install software or access files without the owner knowing. In less malicious, but potentially still awkward scenarios, the host computer may simply make an honest mistake and back up all your data — including pictures and financial information you weren’t planning on sharing.

So if you’re often charging on the go, and you don’t truly know whether a given port is safe or not, it’s time to think about a USB condom.

SOURCE: nbcnews.com

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