While you may be tempted to charge a personal device or cell phone using your computer’s USB port, doing so violates U.S. Postal Service® policy and could leave the network vulnerable to a cyber intrusion.
When a smart mobile device (e.g., phone, tablet, or wearable technology) is plugged into a computer’s USB port, the two devices can exchange information or malware.1 This could put sensitive information into the wrong hands and potentially affect Postal Service™ business.
To prevent a cyber intrusion, follow these important tips when charging a mobile device:
n Use a wall outlet. Charge personal devices by plugging them into an electrical outlet in an approved location.
n Use a portable charger. Personal charging blocks and battery cases can also help extend battery life.
n Avoid public charging stations. Cyber criminals may tamper with public charging stations, such as those found at airports, by installing malicious software.2 Plugging devices into a public charging station can also jeopardize privacy by making sensitive personal data potentially accessible to cyber criminals.3
Careless charging isn’t the only way to put the Postal Service at risk. When transferring information between USPS® computers, only use USPS-approved flash drives or hard drives. Visit blue.usps.gov/cyber/utilize-encryption.htm for a full list of approved devices that safely share data.
The Postal Service is committed to handling the public’s information with care. Keeping personal mobile devices separate from USPS computers helps prevent a potential security incident (see Handbook AS-805, Information Security, section 5-5, for further guidance).
To report a cybersecurity incident, send an email to CyberSafe@usps.gov or call 877-876-2455. For more information, visit the CyberSafe at USPS® websites on Blue (blue.usps.gov/cyber) and LiteBlue (liteblue.usps.gov/ cyber), or the public-facing website at uspscybersafe.com.
— Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Security Officer
and Digital Solutions, 4-26-18
