You may not realize it but most of the time when you charge your smartphone or tablet via USB port on a computer, you are not only charging your device but you have also given the computer direct access to your files stored on your smartphone or tablet. You see most smartphones and tablets are charged and enable data transfer via USB at the same time.

For most of us, this isn’t an issue as we typically only plug into our own computers and unless our computers have a virus that specifically targets smartphones or tablets, data transfer between computer and mobile device isn’t something to be concerned above. However, if the computer you are connected to is infected with a virus that targets smartphones and tablets, it is very possible that the computer copy over your files without your knowledge or potentially download malware onto your device. That is why USB Condom was born.

Developed by int3.cc, the USB Condom is a sleeve that goes over USB wires. The sleeve blocks the data transfer pins in USB wires and only allows the charging pins to work, making it impossible for data transfer to occur between computer and device.

Although it will be a bit annoying to have to put on all your USB wires, it certainly is a great invention. Especially nowadays when everyone is concerned about their privacy.

Unfortunately, USB Condom is currently sold out so not only does int3.cc not show its price but you won’t be able to get one until the next shipment arrives, which is expected within this week. Still, it may be worth the wait. You can hit up the via link below to go to its official website for purchase once it is back.

So, there we have it. Next time you have to charge your device at public charging stations, make sure to use protection.

[via The Verge, int3.cc and Image via techshomoy.com]