How to Protect Computers From Infected USB Devices

For over 20 years now, we have been using USB drives to store and transfer information across computers that aren’t digitally connected. This is why USB devices are also becoming the personal favorite of cybercriminals. The recent attack on the Iranian nuclear facility via the Stuxnet worm that used USB devices to target the network is a recent example.

The effect of this malware attack was widespread, and to date, it is being revamped to compromise other facilities. Due to this and multiple other reasons, identifying infected USB devices before they can cause any harm is essential.

Fortunately, this job can be handled well using an advanced security tool like T9 Antivirus. Compatible with all versions of the Windows operating system, this antivirus software scans infected flash drives as soon as they are connected and helps clean the virus.

This post will explain how this powerful protection tool can be used to avoid a USB drop attack.

How Do USB Devices Get Infected with Malware?

The USB driver can be infected both intentionally and unintentionally. The Stuxnet malware is an example of the former, where the threat actors uploaded malicious code onto the drive to compromise the targeted network. On the other hand, a system is accidentally infected when a weakly secured USB is connected to a poorly safeguarded system.

How to Protect Your USB Device

For data transfer on several devices, if you use a USB, you are vulnerable to malware – and when storing confidential data, you can never be too careful regarding USB security.

When plugged into the infected network, the USB device gets infected in the blink of an eye. After that, it becomes the carrier of ransomware, malware, keylogger, spyware, or virus that infects the machine quietly, & causes damage before you can even get to know about it.

Another important thing about USB flash drive malware is that it doesn’t work like an email virus that requires manual intervention; all it takes is plugging an infected USB into a machine. Therefore, you need to scan the USB for viruses.

Ways to Protect USB from Virus

By following these certain practices, you can ensure your data isn’t exposed to malicious USB devices.

1. Spread Awareness

The human factor plays a vital role in the spread of USB cyberattacks. That’s why educating people about USB infection and making them aware of the threats is a good idea.

2. Encrypt Financial and Sensitive Data

Another way to keep data protected is to encrypt it. Suppose the hacker can steal data; they won’t be able to access it without the password.

3. Use a Strong Security Tool

Use antivirus software like T9 Antivirus that instantly scans USB drives for threats and blocks them. It is imperative to have a protection tool with real-time protection and a regularly updated database.

How to Use T9 Antivirus & Stay Protected Against Infected USB Drive?

To use T9 Antivirus and stay protected in real-time from all the threats, follow the steps below:

Before running the tool, ensure the USB is connected so it can be scanned for infections.

1. Download and install T9 Antivirus.

2. Launch the USB protection tool with real-time, malware, web, and exploit protection.
3. Select the Scan Type from the left panel & run the scan.

The tool offers three scanning modes –

• Quick Scan– scans the critical system areas.
• Deep Scan– performs a complete system scan for threats.
• Custom Scan– allows users to select areas to scan.

Read Also: How to Secure Your Computer from Unauthorized Access

4. Let the scanning process finish.

5. T9 antivirus will quarantine detected threats.

6. Once this is done, you will get the summary of the action performed.

7. Restart the computer to use an infection-free PC.

4. Safelist USB Devices

Staying protected from USB devices and ports might sound like the perfect solution. However, it can be challenging to connect a Bluetooth device. Therefore, create a safelist to allow only those you trust removable devices.

FAQ-Protect Computers From Infected USB Devices

Fix – How to Protect Pendrive from Virus

USB devices severely threaten device security and sensitive data unless kept in check. A malicious USB device can potentially steal data and infect the network.

T9 Antivirus is an excellent protection tool that helps scan the USB and block infections. With its help, you can safeguard Windows machines from malicious infections.

We hope you like the information we have shared. Please share your feedback, suggestions, or questions in the comments section. For any product-related queries, send an email to support@tweaking.in.