USB Condom – Power But No Data

Matt LeBoff October 2, 2018 USB Security & Compliance

For those in a situation where you plug devices into unknown USB ports, a USB data blocker is a good thing to have around. Or some call it the USB condom!

This is a physical device that sits between the USB host connection and your device. The data blocker enables the power pings of a USB socket, but not the data lines. This means your device will get the power it needs, but without the possibility of infection via data transfers.

For example, if you are at a client’s office and need to connect your device to a USB port and don’t want to risk anything, use the USB data blocker. You’ll get the power, but without the risk of spreading or getting a virus.

Not much use for those who surround themselves with a trusted environment, but for those on the move, I think it’s a great product.

The PortaPow has a smart-charging chip which (they claim) automatically switches between Apple’s power standard and Samsung’s power standard to ensure compatibility and maximize power flow. The USB condom will power up to 2.4amps.

This is a twin pack and available via Amazon through this link:
PortaPow USB Data Blocker via Amazon

Matt LeBoff

Kicking around in technology since 2002. I like to write about technology products and ideas, but at the consumer level understanding. Some tech, but not too techie.