Understanding USB Threats: What to Do When Your Drive is Infected

When using a USB drive, encountering security warnings can be alarming, especially when they come from your antivirus Software. Recently, I experienced a situation that raised my concerns about USB security and the potential risks associated with connecting external drives to different Computers.

After plugging my USB drive into my own PC, I noticed that accessing the files took longer than expected. While I waited, Windows Defender alerted me to a severe threat linked to the USB drive (designated as drive E). This prompted me to reflect on my recent usage of the USB at my school, where I had previously encountered issues. At that time, all my files appeared to be converted to a strange “.lmk” format, rendering them inaccessible. Thankfully, I discovered that this issue could be resolved through a simple command using Command Prompt to restore the original file attributes.

This latest incident felt different, as I had borrowed my USB drive to friends for printing purposes. Although I trusted my classmates to handle it carefully, I couldn’t help but wonder about the possibility of them unintentionally introducing malware from the school Computers, which might not be properly secured.

In light of these developments, I felt it was essential to seek advice. I quickly disconnected my USB Wi-Fi dongle to prevent any potential threats from spreading over the internet.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are some steps you can take:

Disconnect Immediately: If your antivirus detects a threat, disconnect the USB drive immediately to prevent further infection.
Run a Full Scan: Use your antivirus Software to perform a comprehensive scan of your USB drive before reconnecting it to your PC.
Check for File Extensions: If you notice strange file formats or hidden files, command prompts such as “Attrib” can often help recover your data.
Limit Usage on Unknown PCs: Be cautious when plugging your USB drive into unfamiliar or public Computers, like those at schools or libraries.
Discuss with Peers: Share your experiences with friends and classmates to raise awareness about potential USB threats and encourage them to handle devices cautiously.