USB-C has revolutionized not only how we charge our laptops, but also how we send and receive data off other devices. From this one port, you can both charge your laptop while projecting presentations from it (the laptop) to an external monitor. It cuts down on the number of cables you have to bring with you.
Traditionally, you might need at least two cables; the laptop’s proprietary charger and an HDMI cable. However, with USB-C, your laptop will be charged by the external monitor as you do your presentations.
Hackers are Pickpocketing off USB-C connections
The fact that while you connect a peripheral device to your computer via USB-C, power and data moves back and forth on the same port, has opened new avenues for hacking. A compromised external peripheral device (such as an external monitor) could be used by hackers to transfer malicious programs and codes to your computer.
The hackers will soon be having a field day, given USB-C power adapters are set to become the standard for all laptops, smartphones, and tablets in the near future. Unless, cybersecurity come up with a way a user can enable just one-way flow of data, the back and forth data flow in USB-C as currently designed opens a user to digital pickpocketing.
Don’t just connect to any peripheral device
With your laptop, you are always cautious on which Wi-Fi you connect to, but with USB-C you will have another thing to worry about. To be on the safe side, don’t simply connect to just any device, and if you do, make sure sensitive data on your laptop are encrypted and firewalled.
