Did you know that the two greatest sources of data security breaches are lost laptops and USB drives?
Malware lurking on your USB device can lead to a ransomware attack!
To help protect your data and limit your exposure to malware, follow these best practices:
USB Drive Security Tip #1
Only use USB devices when needed
Don’t simply use them out of convenience. We are currently in the process of re-defining our USB Acceptable Use policy.
USB Drive Security Tip #2
Don’t share USB devices with co-workers
Infected USB’s can unknowingly propagate malware from computer to computer.
USB Drive Security Tip #3
Never plug an unknown device into a computer
It’s very common for hackers to “drop” infected USB devices.
USB Drive Security Tip #4
Verify USB devices with IT
Always verify with IT before using a USB device received from a vendor or a client.
USB Drive Security Tip #5
Only use encrypted USB devices with strong passwords
These devices can be bought or software can be provided to encrypt them.
USB Drive Security Tip #6
Use and maintain security software (i.e., anti-virus, anti-spyware, etc.)
Security software is designed to make your computer less vulnerable. Also, make sure to scan your USB devices periodically. If you need assistance or have any concerns, please reach out to IT.
USB Drive Security Tip #7
Store securely
Keep all USB devices in a safe, locked location.
USB Drive Security Tip #8
Keep personal and business USB devices separate
Don’t plug personal devices into your work computer or connect a USB drive containing corporate information to your personal computer.
USB Drive Security Tip #9
Never throw out USB devices you no longer need
Instead, bring them to IT for proper destruction.
Cybersecurity is critical and there are many layers to it. Protecting your data doesn’t stop with good USB practices. Contact us to figure out your gaps in your existing applications and how we can help improve your security. You need to have the mindset that it’s not a matter of if you will have a security issue, it’s a matter of when.
Dan Levin is president and co-founder of Liventus. Connect with him on LinkedIn here.