Speaker warns of 'juice jacking', public‑Wi‑Fi risks and check‑washing targeting older adults

Paula Dagel told the audience that criminals have adapted to technology, now using USB charging ports with embedded skimmers ('juice jacking') to copy or steal phone data. Citing an FBI alert, she advised travelers to "use the electrical outlets. Don't use those USB ports."

Dagel also warned about unsecured public Wi‑Fi and suggested avoiding logging into sensitive accounts on unknown networks. She outlined check‑washing — chemically altering mailed checks — and recommended mailing checks inside a post office, using daytime pickup for blue collection boxes, and shredding financial paperwork before disposal.

As additional technical safeguards, Dagel recommended two‑step authentication for accounts and monitoring credit through the annual free credit report. She pointed attendees to BrokerCheck and the Better Business Bureau's scam tracker as resources for vetting contractors and services.