Do you own a flash drive? Don’t fall victim to a hacker.
Keep reading for important recall information…
January 26, 2010
What’s the recall about?
Several encrypted flash drives – also known as USB memory sticks or thumb drives – are part of a worldwide recall and require security updates because they contain a flaw which could allow hackers to easily gain access to the sensitive information contained on the device.
So, if you happen to lose your drive, your data may not be as safe as you think.
Which flash drives are at risk?
Several vendors have issued security warnings, including:
- Kingston
- SanDisk
- Verbatim
If you are concerned about a flash drive made by a vendor other than one of those listed above, please contact that vendor directly.
What should you do?
Some vendors recommend that you install a software update file, while others ask that you return your flash drive for a replacement.
Visit the links below to find out what you should do for your particular flash drive:
Before sending your flash drive back for a replacement…
If your flash drive’s vendor asks you to return your drive for a replacement, be sure to DELETE all of your data and SANITIZE the drive. JUST DELETING data is not enough to stop people from restoring information using basic recovery programs.
How do you sanitize your flash drive?
You can visit ITCS’s Walk-In IT Help Desk in Austin 103, Monday – Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm, to use disk-sanitizing software (named MediaWiper) on a self-service computer station. You can also contact the ECU IT Help Desk at 252.328.9866 to schedule an appointment with one of our staff for a consultation on alternative drive-sanitizing software.
Have questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the ECU IT Help Desk at 252.328.9866 or submit an online service request http://help.ecu.edu.
