TSA Issues Airport Security Warning To All Airline Travelers In Minnesota

The time of the year has arrrived when people throughout Minnesota are busy planning their well-deserved vacations, and many of those fun adventures will involve traveling by air.

Statistics show that in 2024, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) experienced a significant 6.9% increase in passenger traffic, reaching 37.2 million passengers. This represents the fourth consecutive year of growth for the airport.

MSP also saw a record number of international travelers, with a 19.6% increase over 2023, reaching 3,569,721 passengers.

The bottom line is that airports are busy, and 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.

TSA Issues Important Warning To Airline Travelers

The Transportation Security Administration reached out recently through social media to warn airline travelers 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 compatible charging cables, and they use the USB ports that the airports provide to keep their devices charged.

Get our free mobile app

However, hackers have found a way to compromise USB charging stations so that when people plug their devices in, they'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. However, it's also important to remember that those power bricks are not allowed in checked luggage and must be placed into your carry-on.

Threat #2

The TSA also warned travelers not to use the free public Wifi at airports, particularly if they are making online purchases. If you have no choice but to utilize a public, unsecured WiFi network, be sure never to enter any sensitive information while connected.

SEE NOW: People In Minnesota Warned Not To Travel To These Locations

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.

Additionally, 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.

SEE NOW: Beautiful Minnesota Spot Was Named The Best Hiking Trail In America