TSA Has Issued An Important Warning To Airline Travelers In Wisconsin

With summer fast approaching, it's the time of year when people throughout Wisconsin are ready to plan well-deserved vacations, many of which will involve traveling by air.

Statistics show that in 2024, Wisconsin's major airports experienced a significant increase in air travel. Specifically, Dane County Regional Airport in Madison had its second-highest passenger traffic year in history, serving 2,347,990 passengers. Meanwhile, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport saw traffic surpass 6.3 million, a 5% increase from 2023.

With travel season ramping up, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued an important warning to all airline travelers because of potential security issues that exist in airports even after they clear the initial security checkpoint.

TSA Issues Warning To Airline Travelers

The Transportation Security Administration recently reached out through social media to warn airline travelers that they need to keep their guard up, even after they clear the TSA security checkpoint, because security threats remain if you're not careful.

Threat #1

Almost everyone travels with their smartphone or other device, along with the compatible charging cables, and they use the USB ports that the airports provide to keep their devices charged.

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However, hackers have found a way to compromise USB charging stations so that when people plug their devices in, it'll transfer malware to, or steal personal information from, the connected device.

This is a crime called "juice jacking," and the TSA says that to be safe, travelers should not plug their device directly into a USB port. Instead, get a TSA-compliant power brick or battery pack and plug in there. Remember, those power bricks are not allowed in checked luggage and must be in your carry-on.

Threat #2

The TSA also warned travelers not to use the free public Wifi at airports, particularly if they are making any online purchases. If you are utilizing a public, unsecured WiFi network, never enter any sensitive information while connected.

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Experts say that public Wi-Fi areas often attract thieves and hackers, who create fake access points to Wi-Fi to steal user information by either 1) redirecting them to fraudulent sites that ask for their personal information or 2) observing their online activity while they are using the faulty connection.

So, even when past the security checkpoint, it's important to be cautious and observant while in the airport.

Safe In The Seat says that to stay safe in airports, prioritize personal security by remaining vigilant, especially with belongings, and avoiding unattended luggage. Make sure to follow security protocols and be aware of your surroundings and any potentially suspicious behaviour you might observe.

Also, from a personal health standpoint, practice good hygiene, including hand washing, and consider using hand sanitizer, especially after touching high-touch areas.

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