which of the following uses of removable media is appropriate cyber awareness 2024

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18-10-2024

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Removable Media in 2024: Navigating Cyber Risks in a Digital World

The digital world has made it easier than ever to store and share information, but this convenience also introduces new cybersecurity risks. Removable media, including USB drives, external hard drives, and SD cards, are often seen as a convenient way to transfer data, but they also present potential vulnerabilities that need to be understood and addressed.

What are the Cyber Risks Associated with Removable Media?

Removable media can be a gateway for cyberattacks due to:

• Malware Infections: Malicious software (malware) can be easily spread through infected removable media. According to a study by Ponemon Institute, "approximately 60% of organizations have experienced a data breach caused by a malicious attack on removable media." [1]
• Data Theft: Stolen or lost removable media can expose sensitive information to unauthorized access, leading to data breaches and identity theft.
• Unauthorized Access: Removable media can be used to bypass security measures and gain unauthorized access to networks and systems.

Which Uses of Removable Media are Appropriate in 2024?

While the risks are real, removable media still has its place in a digital world. However, it's crucial to exercise caution and implement appropriate security measures. Here's a breakdown:

Appropriate Uses:

• Data Backup and Recovery: Removable media can be a reliable way to create backups of important data, ensuring data recovery in case of system failure or disaster.
• File Sharing within Secure Networks: Sharing files within a trusted and secure network using removable media can be a quick and convenient method, especially for large files that might be difficult to transfer over the network.

Less Appropriate Uses:

• Transferring Sensitive Data: For sensitive information like financial records, personal data, or confidential business documents, it's best to avoid using removable media. Secure cloud storage solutions are a more reliable and secure alternative.
• Connecting to Untrusted Networks: Using removable media on public Wi-Fi or untrusted networks increases the risk of malware infection. It's best to avoid using removable media in these situations.
• Using Unsecured Media: Ensure all removable media is properly password protected and encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.

Practical Tips for Safe Removable Media Usage:

• Use Anti-Virus Software: Always scan removable media with up-to-date antivirus software before accessing its contents.
• Implement Strong Passwords: Set strong passwords for any removable media you use to protect it from unauthorized access.
• Encrypt Data: Consider using encryption software to protect sensitive data on removable media.
• Limit Media Use in Public: Avoid using removable media on public Wi-Fi or untrusted networks.
• Regularly Back Up Your Data: Create backups of important data on a separate drive or cloud storage solution.

Conclusion:

Removable media remains a valuable tool for certain tasks, but the risks it presents in 2024 should not be ignored. By understanding the vulnerabilities associated with removable media and implementing appropriate security measures, individuals and organizations can minimize their risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.

References:

[1] Ponemon Institute: "2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report"

Additional Information:

For more information about cyber security, you can visit the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) website. They offer valuable resources and guidelines on protecting your data.