A convenient yet potentially dangerous feature has made its way into Apple’s latest update. Under iOS 26, released on September 15, 2025, the permission to connect to wired accessories is turned on by default. A seemingly harmless setting, it could nevertheless come at a high cost.
The Hidden Risk of Public Charging Stations
Who hasn’t ever plugged their iPhone into a USB port at an airport, train station, or shopping mall? This seemingly harmless habit nevertheless opens the door to two particularly sneaky hacking techniques. “juice jacking” lets cybercriminals, using modified cables or USB ports, siphon off your personal data while your device charges. Even more sophisticated, “choice jacking” reproduces a fake interface to trick you into granting access permissions.
How to Protect Yourself in Three Simple Steps
The solution is within reach. In Settings > Privacy & Security > Wired Accessories, select “Ask for New Accessories” or “Always Ask.” This simple change can save you a lot of trouble.
For those who absolutely need to use public charging stations, a few precautions are recommended:
- Prefer a standard electrical outlet with your own charger
- Invest in a USB data blocker
- Keep your phone locked while charging
While the risk remains statistically low, it’s better to adopt good habits now. Cybercriminals are constantly finding ways to bypass protections, so staying vigilant is key.
