(ANN/AFP/THE STAR) – To avoid smartphone risks such as overheating, short-circuiting or even data hacks when charging your device, it is essential to avoid certain places and situations, whether at home or elsewhere.
At home
It is highly advised to avoid charging a smartphone on a flammable surface, like a bed, sofa, or cushions. The device may overheat during charging and, in the worst scenario, could potentially ignite a fire. The same is true for soft surfaces or beneath a pillow, as this might disrupt heat dissipation, significantly raising the risk of the device overheating. It’s essential to remember that plugging your charger into a power strip that’s already overloaded can lead to overheating, thereby raising the chances of a household fire.
It is also not advised to charge your smartphone, or any other electronic device, in your bathroom. The humidity in this room increases the risk of a short circuit, as any splash of moisture on the plug or charger can cause a dangerous electric shock.
Ultimately, it is crucial to avoid leaving your phone charging overnight. Not only does that mean the device is charging unattended, this habit can also lead to overheating. On top of that, it is not recommended to charge the battery to the maximum in order not to damage it.
Outside the home
To avoid the obvious risk of overheating, never charge your phone in direct sunlight. This is especially true inside a car or just behind a window. In severe instances, this might even cause the battery to explode.
There is an additional risk that many people do not recognise – the danger of being hacked through a public charging station. Juice jacking is a cyberattack method that takes advantage of USB ports for charging mobile devices in public areas. When a device connects to a hacked USB port, cybercriminals can implant malware or steal sensitive information without the user’s awareness. In reality, using the USB charging stations found at train stations, airports, and on public transport is not advisable, even though the risk is quite low.
In any case, when you are not at home, remember to always use your own high-quality charger, certified to official standards.
