USB keys are initially used to store data, but in the hands of malicious people they can become a real public hazard. By moving from one computer to another, they can especially transmit malware that would allow hackers to steal your personal data. Some can even fry your computer completely.
The notorious case of USB keys filled with malware distributed to the mailboxes of Pakenham, Australia will have triggered real awareness. If for many of us it may seem like a real aberration to connect a USB key of unknown origin to our computer, some would not hesitate to do so without blinking at the expense of giving away their data. personal to famous strangers.
USB keys, malware sponges
Two years ago, security company Sophos highlighted the existence of a major vulnerability called “Bad USB” that could infect any computer using a USB device. All you have to do is reprogram the firmware, which will then leave the door open to viruses. So easy for a hacker!
When the device is connected to the computer, the latter is immediately infected, even if it is turned off. then it’s possiblespy on everything typed on the keyboard, including passwords. Needless to say, hacking your accounts from there would be child’s play. An example among others because ultimately any hacker can install malware on a USB key. Then make sure it can reach your PC, and the famous case of mailboxes proves that a little imagination is all it takes at this level.
All USB keys are dangerous because they are believed to be harmless.
If an object like a USB key can be dangerous, it’s precisely because we don’t suspect it. We use antivirus and tons of software to protect ourselves from malware without even suspecting that a USB key could be a real Trojan in itself. Their ubiquity in the computer world makes us trust them without thinking. However, it is sufficient for a key to be infected or not voluntarily so that it then spreads viruses and malware to all the machines it will connect to.
Also, IT security issues are always internet related. We avoid visiting certain websites that are considered dangerous, we use firewalls, we take care not to click on a link provided in an email without checking the source. All these measures are of course necessary, but are they really enough? Answer is no !
How do you protect yourself from it?
Common sense dictates that we simply avoid using it. USB key of unknown origin. This is also the most effective solution. But what should we do if we think that the key in question was transmitted by a trusted person or company and we have no concerns? For example, imagine that your USB key is being used without your knowledge on a friend’s computer or a malware-infected public PC, how do you know if it poses a threat?
Fortunately, there is software to scan USB drives. We chose two. However, keep in mind that your vigilance remains the most effective of all protections.
USB disk Security
USB disk Security It is a multifunctional tool that will allow you to protect yourself in real time from USB devices connected to your machine. It scans them first to check that they are free of malware. then it will prevent the key from copying your data. It’s free in its limited version, but a full-featured version will cost you a total of $55.
BitDefender USB Immunizer
Most of the time, the spread of malware or data theft happens when the program included in the key runs automatically as soon as it connects to your machine due to the presence of a file called autorun.inf, that is the whole problem. That’s why BitDefender company designed a tool called USB Immunizer whose mission is to make your device immune to malicious autorun.inf files by creating its own files that cannot be changed or deleted.
The editor recommends:
- USB Killer, the 50€ USB key that consumes your computer
- Here is the USB condom that protects your smartphone while it is charging
- A new malware attacking our smartphones via USB cable