USB sticks serve as a storage device when we need to transfer data from one system to another. As we move further into the digital age and our technology advances, so do our gadgets. USB is one of those advancements that took place to make all of our lives easier. USBs help us transfer data from one device to another electronically, however, without the need of the internet. They can be used for data that needs to be mobile, data that is too big to be sent through email or in places where there is no internet connection. However, just like USBs can carry data, they can also carry viruses, malicious software, and more. This infiltrates your computer and produces disastrous results for your organization or you as an individual.
What Damage Can A USB Do?
USBs contain different malware within them depending on the type of malicious device they have come into contact with. Some of them are Trojan, information stealers, and more. However, the most dangerous one and the one most detrimental to you as a victim is ransomware. Ransomware is when the hacker freezes or takes over your data and assets through malicious software. The data then is only accessible through a pin or a code. To give you the code or pin, the hacker will ask for ransom or some other sort of financial gain. To resolve this scenario, usually, cybersecurity services are involved. They use processes such as ransomware removal and ransomware recovery to recover your data and remove the malware from your device. By taking your data as a hostage, this can have a serious effect on your reputation as a firm or even as an individual as consumers will know that their data is not secure with you.
How To Prevent This Occurrence?
It’s always best to be cautious than to suffer the consequences at a later stage. By having such malware in your system, you can lose a lot of money, data, and your reputation. It is key that you follow these steps when using a USB to prevent such an incident from happening.
- Do not plug your device into unknown computers or devices. Unless you are not sure and do not fully trust the device, do not insert your USB into it as the main source of malicious software is the first computer itself.
- Get a newer model of a USB. Some new USBs have fingerprint authentication and other advanced features that will improve security and keep your device safe from hackers.
- Do not use the same USBs for home and work as that would lead to cross-contamination and would cause malware to take over both your devices.
- Whenever you purchase your device, make sure to get it from an authentic seller. Do not get it from third-party manufacturers as they have a high risk of malware
- Keep the security on your device or laptop updated as cybersecurity services can prevent an attack from happening before it does.
