Can public charging cables steal your data? Experts explain how to avoid 'juice jacking' in 2026

If you’ve ever watched your battery dip below 10%, you'll be all too familiar with the feeling of rising panic. You start scanning the room. Who has a cable? A power bank? Maybe you even spot a built-in charger in an Uber or an airport seat and feel instant relief.

When our phones are dying, we make quick decisions. But should you trust a cable offered by a stranger or a charging port in a public space?

As we’ll soon find out, this one isn’t a clean yes or no. There’s real risk here, but also strong protections already in place. But understanding why this idea exists, what actually happens in a security attack, and where the real dangers lie can help you stay safer without becoming paranoid.