When to Avoid Charging Your Smartphone: Safety Precautions to Take

PARIS: 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 strongly recommended not to charge a smartphone on a flammable surface, such as a bed, sofa or cushions.

The device is at risk of overheating while charging and could, in the worst scenario, cause a fire to start. The same applies to soft surfaces or under a pillow, as this could interfere with heat dissipation, considerably increasing the risk of the device overheating.

It is also important to keep in mind that connecting your charger to an already crowded power strip can also result in overheating, again increasing the risk of domestic 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.

Finally, it is essential 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 extreme cases, this can even cause the battery to explode.

There is also another risk that too many people are unaware of – that of being hacked via a public charging station.

The phenomenon of juice jacking is a cyberattack technique that involves exploiting USB ports used to charge mobile devices in public spaces.

When a device is connected to a compromised USB port, cybercriminals can install malware or extract sensitive data without the user’s knowledge.

In fact, it is not recommended to use the USB charging stations available at train stations, airports and on public transport, even if the risk is relatively minimal.

In any case, when you are not at home, remember to always use your own high-quality charger, certified to official standards.

Conclusion

Charging your smartphone requires caution and attention to detail. By being aware of the potential risks and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and convenient charging experience. Remember to avoid flammable surfaces, crowded power strips, bathrooms, and direct sunlight, and always use your own high-quality charger when not at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I charge my phone on a bed or sofa?

A: No, it is strongly recommended not to charge your phone on a flammable surface, such as a bed or sofa, as it can increase the risk of overheating and even cause a fire.

Q: Is it safe to charge my phone in the bathroom?

A: No, it is not advised to charge your phone in the bathroom, as the humidity in this room increases the risk of a short circuit, which can cause a dangerous electric shock.

Q: Can I charge my phone in direct sunlight?

A: No, it is not recommended to charge your phone in direct sunlight, as it can cause the battery to overheat and even explode in extreme cases.

Q: Can I use public charging stations?

A: No, it is not recommended to use public charging stations, as they can be compromised and pose a risk of being hacked or infected with malware.