In an age where cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is critical for everyday users to stay informed about hidden dangers that may seem trivial at first glance. Recently, a chilling demonstration by ethical hacker Ryan Montgomery brought global attention to a particularly alarming vulnerability: malicious charging cables.
During an eye-opening segment on the popular Valuetainment podcast hosted by Patrick Bet-David, Montgomery revealed just how easy it is for a cybercriminal to gain control over a smartphone or computer, all by using what appears to be a normal charging cable. The implications of this demonstration were profound, showing that even the most trusted devices and accessories can be weaponized against unsuspecting victims.
The Hidden Dangers of Charging Cables
The cable Montgomery showcased looked indistinguishable from a standard USB charging cable — the kind millions of people use daily to power their phones, tablets, and laptops. However, this seemingly innocent cable was far more dangerous than it appeared.
According to Montgomery, once the cable is plugged into a device, it can perform keystroke injection at a speed of 860 words per second. This means the cable can rapidly input commands into the connected device, allowing an attacker to take control, install malware, steal passwords, monitor communications, or even wipe entire systems — all without the device owner noticing anything unusual.
But it doesn’t stop there. The cable also establishes its own Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling a hacker to remotely access the compromised device from a distance. Once the cable is plugged in, the attacker no longer needs to be near the victim. They can control the device from across the room — or even from across the street — depending on the strength of the Wi-Fi connection.
An Attack Hidden in Plain Sight
What makes this attack method particularly frightening is its stealth. The cable functions perfectly as a charger, so a victim would have no reason to suspect anything malicious. Their phone would charge normally, the screen would display the usual charging icon, and there would be no obvious indicators of a security breach.
Montgomery stressed this point during his demonstration, explaining:
“That could have been anything that I wanted it to be, and I now have remote control over this cable. If I plug it right into my phone, watch — my phone charges, you would have no idea that this implant is in your house.”
In other words, a single compromised cable left behind at a friend’s house, a café, an office, or even gifted as part of a promotional item could be enough to silently infiltrate a device.
How to Protect Yourself: The Role of Data Blockers
Thankfully, there are ways to defend against such attacks. One of the most effective tools Montgomery recommended is a data blocker. These small, inexpensive devices are inserted between the charging cable and the device. They allow only electrical power to pass through while blocking any data transmission.
Using a data blocker ensures that when you plug into an unknown or public USB port — such as those found at airports, hotels, or coffee shops — you are only charging your device and not inadvertently opening it to hackers.
Data blockers serve as an essential line of defense, particularly for travelers, business professionals, and anyone frequently charging their devices outside their homes.
Public Reaction: Shock and Fear
After the segment aired, it didn’t take long for the internet to explode with reactions. Many viewers expressed shock, fear, and anger upon learning how vulnerable their devices could be from something as routine as plugging in a charger.
Comments flooded social media platforms, with users stating they would:
- Never use public USB charging stations again
- Only use their personal chargers from now on
- Regularly inspect their charging cables for tampering
- Change ATM PINs and delete browsing histories as precautionary measures
Some users even speculated whether governments or major corporations could be utilizing similar methods to conduct mass surveillance, further fueling public distrust regarding cybersecurity.
The Broader Implications for Cybersecurity
Ryan Montgomery’s demonstration serves as a powerful reminder that cybersecurity threats are evolving beyond traditional digital attacks. Physical devices that we assume to be harmless — like a USB cable — can be turned into sophisticated attack tools.
This new reality highlights the importance of cyber hygiene and situational awareness. It’s no longer sufficient to simply install antivirus software and avoid suspicious links. Individuals must now think critically about every object they connect to their devices and recognize that even everyday accessories could pose serious risks.
Companies, too, must reconsider how they manage device security within corporate environments. Allowing employees to plug in unauthorized cables or devices could open corporate networks to devastating breaches.
Final Thoughts
As technology continues to advance, so do the methods used by cybercriminals. What Ryan Montgomery demonstrated is not just a hypothetical scenario; it is a real, actionable threat that exists today.
Every device user — from casual smartphone owners to IT professionals — must remain vigilant. Always use trusted charging cables, consider investing in a good-quality data blocker, and avoid using public USB ports when possible.
Montgomery’s demonstration may have been alarming, but it also empowered viewers with knowledge — and in cybersecurity, knowledge truly is the most powerful defense.
