A local tech expert is warning of the dangers of using public USB ports.

Many of these ports are strategically placed for people to recharge their phones, often found near airport gates, metro buses, coffee shops and other travel-friendly locations.

However, Kevin Andrews warns that those who use those parts may be the victims of “juice jacking”, as a USB cord opens up a data pathway between the device and the power source.

He says the devices owner cannot see what the USB port plugs into, meaning cyber criminals can copy data without the owner ever knowing.

Andrews says it is best to avoid the station by charging your phone when you are not using it or by choosing a different method to charge your phone.

He suggests using a wall outlet as data cannot be transferred through those power sources.