USB drives are convenient and easy to lose. They also bypass some email filters entirely: plug in a found stick, open a file, and malware has a new home. Removable media policy is unglamorous security that still matters.
Practical USB rules for offices
- Do not plug in unknown or “found” USB drives
- Prefer company-issued encrypted drives for sensitive file transport
- Disable autoplay
- Scan media on a dedicated station if you must accept vendor USB deliveries
- Use cloud sharing links with expiration instead of sneakernet when possible
When USB still makes sense
- Offline backup copies stored off-site (rotated carefully)
- Secure transfer where cloud is not allowed—with encryption and chain of custody
Endpoint protection helps, but policy and training stop the “mystery USB in the parking lot” story. Pair this with EDR protection.
Need help putting this into practice for your business? Contact SabatAge or call (845) 475-8468. We support Hudson Valley and Orange County businesses with practical security and managed IT.
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