Infected USB flash drives can spread malware among multiple organizations in ways that can easily bypass traditional security systems.
Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to steal your data. As people become more aware of common threats like phishing links, fake websites, fraudulent emails and impersonation scams, attackers are becoming more creative in their approach. One of the newer methods they are using involves targeting USB flash drives. It may seem surprising that they would focus on something as simple as a flash drive, but the data it holds can be valuable.
Why target USB flash drives? USB drives are ubiquitous in workplaces, especially in environments with air-gapped systems or restricted internet access, such as those in government and energy sectors. This makes them an easy target for data theft and malware propagation. Often, these drives store sensitive files that are not available on networked systems.
Kurt’s key takeaway Cybercriminals thrive where convenience meets oversight. However, it’s worth considering why USBs remain such a soft target. They’re not just storage but a cultural artifact of workplaces, especially in high-stakes sectors like energy or government, where offline data transfer feels safer than the cloud. But that trust is a blind spot.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter. Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover. Follow Kurt on his social channels: Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Plug this tiny 1TB drive into your phone to instantly free up spaceGrab the Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 high-speed flash drive for $69.97 (reg. $109.99) until April 27.
Read more »
Plug this tiny 1TB drive into your phone to instantly free up spaceGrab the Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 high-speed flash drive for $69.97 (reg. $109.99) until April 27.
Read more »
Plug this tiny 1TB drive into your phone to instantly free up spaceGrab the Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 high-speed flash drive for $69.97 (reg. $109.99) until April 27.
Read more »
PNY Technologies Starts Shipping Its New High-Speed USB-C Thumb DriveYour laptop probably has USB-C ports so maybe it's time more thumb drives came with USB Type-C connectors. These new PRO Elite V3 thumb drives are shipping now.
Read more »
CableTime Reveals New USB Docking Station With SSD Slot And 100W PDLaptops don't have many ports or connections but with a docking station lie CableTime's CB14S. This device can add more displays, storage, peripherals and networking.
Read more »
Google’s new Titan security keys are ready for a world without passwordsGoogle’s new Titan Security Key lineup has a USB-C and USB-A version, both with NFC for wireless connection to mobile devices and FIDO2 compatibility for secure passwordless logins.
Read more »