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173 points

Plugging into a random usb port is bad security

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84 points

Not really bad if you use a power-only cable. If the data pins aren’t even wired up, can’t move anything other than power.

Not sure if that works with USB-C at anything other than legacy 500mA power draw though, probably not since the device can’t communicate for what it supports.

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68 points

If your device has good software, it will only allow power unless you authorize a data connection.

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62 points

* Assuming there is no bug, zero-day, or other vulnerability on the current version of your fully updated device.

Having a power-only cable removes that as a possibility.

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30 points

Now if only usb cables were labeled like Ethernet cables.

It amazes me how given the complexity of the USB specifications, where everything looks the same but it is not the same, nothing is ever labeled.

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11 points

Some things are but the labelling is stupid and tiny. Many laptop ports are labeled but people aren’t familiar with the icons (and the icons are often confusingly similar)

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15 points

A power only USB-C cable is a violation of USB spec, has to be USB 2.0 at the least.

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3 points
*

That’s never stopped companies from making something, like A to A USB cables.

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8 points

With this arrangement, they probably can’t steal your data. But they can absolutely destroy your phone with a string electric shock, if that’s the sort of malicious plan they have.

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8 points

Until you find that person who wired a 48v USB plug, just for you.

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2 points

USB-PD standards push 50v. Go with wall voltage (110-220v 60/50hz) to be sure.

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2 points

Not really bad if you use a power-only cable.

Or a USB condom. But I never really hear about those anymore.

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17 points

There has never been a proven case of juice jacking, anywhere, ever.

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15 points

But I have seen multiple phones get harmed by a really bad charger. Although these chargers were not for public use.

Still, it’s not a bad idea to bring a power bank. And then charge that, if you need to.

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13 points
*

At least that’s what the juice jackers want us to think.

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7 points

Bangs42 thinks they’re slick, but we all know that’s what a juice jacker would say.

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6 points

So’s leaving the house.

Stay in, bolt the doors, board up the windows, stay safe.

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4 points

Except that isn’t even safe, just paranoid. Sometimes accidents happen because you’re trying to prevent accidents

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