(Yicai Global) Dec. 8 -- Shared power banks found in public places in China may contain malware that allows hackers to steal user data or even control the handset remotely, according to the public security ministry.

Portable power banks that can be used for free or for a small fee all pose security hazards, the ministry said in a statement on its WeChat channel yesterday.

Once the USB wire is plugged in, the power bank may install Trojan horse programs across Android and iOS devices, fintech expert Zhang Kun told news outlet AI Finance and Economics.

Energy Monster, one of China's shared power bank providers, responded to the notice by saying that its cables can only be used for charging the phone, not for data transfer.

Security experts at Qihoo 360 Technology recommended consumers to avoid using share power banks, especially those of little-known brands or those that are offered for free.

Editor: Emmi Laine