Samsung Express 3 USB rapidly connecting/disconnecting

[Android Central Question]

So, recently for some reason, my Samsung Express 3 began acting up for no reason, not connecting to the computer to transfer files unless debug mode was on and now rapidly connects and disconnects if I try to use a normal USB-to-Micro USB cord. I had no problems with this a week ago, but this just suddenly started and I can't figure out what is wrong or what would've caused it. To top it off, the phone rapidly wastes battery by flashing the lock screen on and off without me touching the phone

It's a serious pain since the phone constantly vibrates and keeps me from being able to properly transfer image files I need for projects. Is this a factor of planned obsolescence? I ask since I can't afford a new phone and I haven't even hand this one for two years.

 

[Rukbat]

No, it's not planned obsolescence, I still have a phone from 2004 that works, and both of my Note 3s (2013) still work fine.

It could be a component breaking down (it is, after all, almost 6 years old, which is 7 generations old), or it could just be that the USB connector has worked loose and one of the 2 data pins is intermittently connecting and disconnecting, which wouldn't be surprising on a phone that old.

 

[affectos]

If that's the case, what are my options? Taking it to an AT&T or Samsung store for repair? Or is it cheaper to get a new one?