Use of USB memory sticks

Malware risk

At worst, a thumb drive also transfers malware and viruses. The malware spreads from the USB stick to a computer and from the computer further to other thumb sticks used in it. The risk is reduced if your computer's operating system, applications and antivirus are up to date.

Malware on the stick can start automatically when the stick is connected to the computer. In this case, the computer becomes infected and the problem can spread in other systems. Because of this risk, be careful about other users' thumb drives and do not connect an unknown stick to your computer. Also, don't connect your own flash drive to unknown computers.

A memory stick is not a safe storage

Files on a USB flash drive can be destroyed as a result of a technical failure or by the user's own action. Therefore, do not rely on the flash drive as the only storage place for important files. Due to its small size, a stick can be easily dropped or forgotten on a common computer. In this case, anyone can read its contents if the data is not encrypted. If you store sensitive material on sticks, get a USB stick that encrypts the data.

Lost memory sticks

If you find another user's thumb drive on campus, remember the malware risk! Do not connect it to your computer, but deliver to the Campus ICT Service Point. Similarly, if you lose your own thumb drive, ask it from the service point.