Yes, you read that right, a “USB Condom” does exist even though it is probably the worst phrase you may have heard in the technology space. It is a device that prevents your smartphone at public charging points from transferring data. It can also be termed as a USB “data blocker” and is officially called the PortaPow 3rd-gen USB data blocker. 

© PortaPow

It costs around Rs 500 and has the ability to kill all data transfers as it removes any data transfers by obstructing the connection physically. This device prevents scammers from phishing at public charging points as a way to steal data from users. One needs to simply attach the PortaPow data blocker to the charging end of a cable and then plug it into the smartphone. 

© PortaPow

Scammers or hackers use “juice jacking” as a method to copy sensitive data or install malware on smartphones, tablets and other smart devices. In other cases, scammers have been able to install ransomware on smartphones and lockout users from their own devices unless the demanded ransom is paid. Scammers have also gone to the extent of leaving charging cables at these public charging points to target users who have forgotten their own cables. 

If you really do care about your own privacy or do not want any malware on your phone, Rs 500 is a very small price to pay. However, this data blocker is not compatible with USB-C devices. So, until the company releases a new one soon, you can get another adaptor to make it compatible with your existing devices. 

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