Risks of Removable Media
What is Removable Media?
Removable media can be described as something that allows data to be copied to it, and then taken off site or transferred to another device. There are a few different forms removable media can take depending on the speed and usage:
- Optical media forms such as CD’s or DVD’s
- Music players like Ipods or equipped Smartphones
- SD Cards
- USB or portable hard drives
Removable media has many advantages that make for a quick and easy way to transfer or copy data. However, just as easy as it is to do that, it can be equally as easy for negative things to infiltrate removable media like viruses and malware.
Risks
Copying Data
We usually don’t think twice about using a common USB stick to copy work documents, a school project, or any other data. We drag and drop, and move on to the next thing. Here’s the data security issue with USBs though. Once data is moved to something else, there is a possibility that you no longer have 100% control of it. USBs are small, tiny, and easy to lose or misplace. There is always a risk involved when data is not safe and secure in one place. You don’t know what hands it could get into or where it will end up if you happen to lose it.
Malware
Removable devices can be privy to malware should they fall into any other hands but your own. If you are to use them or have to use them, make sure you know very well where it travels to. If these are used with an antivirus application or protection, the removable media could compromise your data or your company’s data. Also be aware when using anyone else’s removable media as it’s just as easy to transfer malware and other malicious viruses if these have the ability to autorun.
Thinline Technologies offers full-service IT solutions that allow you to put the focus on your business, instead of worrying about your technology running properly for your business. Our team of professionals are available 24/7 to solve problems no matter where and when they arise. Contact us today on our website at thinlinetech.com or at 410.453.9300.