Portable storage, while very convenient, provides a particularly easy opportunity to transport malicious software, including programs capable of logging keystrokes, installing hidden programs and other software that can compromise security. A simple method of compromising computer systems is to leave a malicious portable storage device around a work area or congregating place, knowing that a user may plug them into their systems to see what they contain. Simply running a video file that has no observable effect can compromise a machine if malicious code is embedded in the file.
Users should not access portable storage of unknown security status. The user of the computer system bears responsibility in the event of an incident caused by using unverified or unknown portable devices in computers. Only use storage devices that were purchased by the college or scanned for malicious code.
Scanning portable storage for malicious code: Microsoft Defender can scan portable devices prior to use. Use Windows Explorer to access the properties of the device, select show more options and then choose Scan with Microsoft Defender.
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