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Posted: Mon, June 23, 2008
USB flash drives 'pose real security threat'USB flash drives are being used to breach enterprise network security and install malicious code on corporate IT systems, a technology body has claimed.According to the European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA), organisations allowing the unfettered use of such devices could be losing between 65,000 euros (£51,000) and 1.6 million euros (£1.3 million) for every security violation that is made. The agency, which shares best practices for minimising the risk of uncontrolled use of personal storage devices, also warned that as many as 90 per cent of the USB drives purchased by businesses last year were not encrypted or stored in secure locations. Andrea Pirotti, executive director of the ENISA, said: "The cost of a USB flash drive may be insignificant but the value of the data it might contain can be priceless. ENISA strongly encourages companies with highly regulated or sensitive data to better manage the use of 'plug-and-play' devices." In early June 2008, enterprise security specialist McAfee announced the release of a new USB drive with built in two-factor encryption, security authentication, biometric security and passwords. Applications, including virtual private networks, internet browsers, and thin clients, can be installed and run from the McAfee Encrypted USB devices, which feature no client footprint – no software installation or administrator's rights are required. 
© Adfero Ltd
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