Estimated 9,000 USB drives Lost or Left at Laundry Mat

A recent study was just released that suggests over 9,000 USB drives are left, lost or forgotten at laundry mats.  The study was done to show consumers how easy it is to have valuable information fall into the hands of a stranger.

Even on our best day, accidents happen.  A similar study was done with PDA and cell phones left in taxi cabs.  That number is close to 6,200 per year.

Given this information and each of us knowing we are not perfect, it is wise to put some encryption on your USB drive or password protect the device.  Many times the manufacturer will supply a utility free with the device…don’t try and format it off, rather use it!

David Porter, head of security and risk at Detica, explained that there was only so much that experts and computer systems could do to thwart identity fraud. According to Porter, final responsibility rests with the consumer. “Identity fraud attacks succeed largely because of human fallibility; however there are simple steps that people can take to avoid being caught out by fraudsters,” said Porter.

So take a moment and protect yourself from the accidents of everyday life.

Source:  IT Examiner.