Firms ignore USB threat

Firms are finding it hard to cope with the illicit use of USB-type devices, leaving them vulnerable to data theft and virus infections, according to new research.

A survey by auditing specialist Centennial Software found that the use of memory sticks and iPods in workplaces is not being controlled by IT departments. This could pose a danger to firms, as staff could use the devices to take sensitive data off site, introduce viruses, or create a build-up of unwanted files.

Chief executive Andy Burton said the most worrying finding was almost one in 10 firms had never acted to stop the use of unauthorised devices on their systems.

Just over half of firms said they were aware of the risks and were planning to create a usage policy. But more than a third of firms had no plans to create a policy as they did not see the devices as a problem.