What Is a USB Data Block­er and Why Do You Need One

If you’re a frequent traveler, you’ve probably experienced running out of battery power on your smartphone. Of course, there would always be USB power plugs available in most airports, hotels, or other public places. While they offer an easy and quick way of charging your device, they can leave your smartphone vulnerable to hacking. So, in this case, do you need a USB data blocker?

In this post, we will explain the purpose of this nifty gadget. We will also teach you how to choose excellent USB data blockers.

As much as they offer a quick and easy way of charging up your devices, they’re not safe. That is why you need a USB data blocker to protect your data from hackers who may steal your data through these USB power plugs.

We’re going to explain what a USB data blocker is, how it works, and why you need one.

WHAT IS A USB DATA BLOCKER

A USB data blocker, also known as a “USB condom” (really, no kidding!), is a device that allows you to plug into USB charging ports including charging kiosks, and USB ports on gadgets owned by other people.

The main purpose of using one is to eliminate the risk of infecting your phone or tablet with malware, and even prevent hackers to install/execute any malicious code to access your data.

If you connect your devices to a wireless or wired public internet connection, or a USB power charging station, it’s difficult to tell how safe they’ll be. You probably use a VPN when browsing, but that doesn’t hinder hackers from accessing data from your device when connected to a public charging port.

With a USB data blocker, you can stop your device from getting hacked at a public place if you’re going to use the USB power charging stations in such areas.

HOW A USB DATA BLOCKER WORKS

A USB data blocker prevents attackers from stealing your data or infecting your devices with malware when you plug them into USB power stations that aren’t safe.

Hackers rig some of these charging stations for juice jacking your data. That allows the hackers to set a passage into your devices without your knowledge and consent.

The main idea behind using a USB data blocker is that it blocks data pins such that there’s no data flowing, but your devices will still charge as if directly connected to the USB power charging station.

The USB data blockers prevent any accidental exchange of data any time you connect your device into a public charging station or foreign computers via a USB cable.

Ideally, the best way to charge your devices when traveling would be by using an AC power outlet directly, charging in your vehicle, or using a portable charger (power bank).

While this is great, it may not be possible to find or use these options every other time, which is why a USB data blocker is useful to carry.