Archives - USB


Keep flash drives secure

A detachable external drive may seem like a good way to boost security to sensitive data, but it has its own challenges. A USB can be inserted into many devices, and you can’t know if their own security meets your standards. You can mitigate chances of security breaches due to theft with advanced drives that […]

Ditch public USB charging and pack your own supply instead

When you plug your cellphone into public USB charging ports, you could be exposing your device to malware planted there by malicious actors. When you’re traveling, plan ahead and charge a couple of your own secure power banks so you won’t be tempted to tap into potentially hazardous public ports.

Know the real difference between USB-A and USB-C

Reversible USB-C ports aren’t just slimmer than old-school USB-A ports – they’re also much faster in almost all instances. The USB specification does not support the USB-A connector after USB 3.2, meaning it can’t deliver the faster speeds of USB 4.0 and beyond. But USB-C can. Use USB-C for faster file transfers and better Ethernet […]

Disable your USB drive’s “auto-run” feature

As soon as you plug a flash drive into your computer, the system immediately starts opening and reading its contents. But what if the drive contains a virus? If you think this might be the case, hold the “Shift” key as you plug it in. This will stop the computer from automatically opening its files.

Use caution when plugging flash drives into your computer

Duqu, Flame and Stuxnet are specific types of malware that have spread via USB flash drives. Keep your computer safe by avoiding any unknown or strange drives. Rather than borrowing one from a friend or coworker, take the safer approach by purchasing a new drive from a trusted brand.   

Don’t plug foreign hard drives into your computer

Did you recently fill up your hard drive and now you need a new one? In this case, always buy a fresh hard drive from a trusted provider. Don’t make the mistake of taking the cheaper option by using an old one. If you find an extra hard drive in a desk drawer in your […]