Universal Serial Bus (USB) storage devices (flash drives, external hard drives) are ubiquitous tools for data transfer. However, their portability and "plug-and-play" nature make them a primary vector for malware propagation. This report outlines the mechanisms of USB-based infections, the methodologies for scanning and sanitizing these devices, and strategic recommendations for securing organizational and personal data environments against USB threats.

If your drive has a physical switch, flip it to "Read Only" before plugging it into a computer you don't trust.

Go to your system settings and turn off "AutoPlay" for all removable drives.

To mitigate risks beyond simple scanning, the following protocols are recommended: