Needless to say, the most common method for data leakage is through
USB/Pen drive/Mass storage devices. Leakage is also high through
PCs/laptops that get infected by viruses/malware.
Most corporations have centralized control for usage of such devices. However, such controls are desirable in the offices of Chartered Accountants/CPA firms, as they have critical databases of their clients. It’s generally observed that the Data Security Policies of CA/CPA firms are relatively weak and can be easily compromised.
In this article, we’ll explore the simple steps for blocking USB Ports i.e. blocking of Pen Drive/Mass Storage Devices.
Please note: No software is required for controlling such devices. (Yes. It’s free of cost. So, go ahead (:- )
There are 2 options to achieve our objective:
Please remember:
The change will be effective immediately, however sometimes a reboot
may be required. This hack will ensure that all the USB storage devices
are disabled/blocked or enabled, according to your choice.
#Through the Device Manager:
Please note: The above controls will work only if your PCs/Laptops are using the Admin password. Otherwise, anyone can redo i.e. enable USB again and fly away with your confidential data.
Most corporations have centralized control for usage of such devices. However, such controls are desirable in the offices of Chartered Accountants/CPA firms, as they have critical databases of their clients. It’s generally observed that the Data Security Policies of CA/CPA firms are relatively weak and can be easily compromised.
In this article, we’ll explore the simple steps for blocking USB Ports i.e. blocking of Pen Drive/Mass Storage Devices.
Please note: No software is required for controlling such devices. (Yes. It’s free of cost. So, go ahead (:- )
There are 2 options to achieve our objective:
- Through the Registry
- Through the Device Manager
- Go to Start > Run , type “regedit” and press enter to open the registry editor
- Navigate to the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesUSBSTOR
In the right pane, select Start and change the value to 4 (the value 3
is to enable USB Storage). Click OK. This will disable your USB port.Please remember:
Value
|
Function
|
3
|
To enable USB Port
|
4
|
To disable USB Port
|
#Through the Device Manager:
- Go to Start > Run , type “Device Manager” and press enter to open the Device Manager
- Navigate to the following key: Universal Service Bus Controllers
- The list of installed devices will appear. Select and right click. Select ‘Disable Option’ from the menu.
Please note: The above controls will work only if your PCs/Laptops are using the Admin password. Otherwise, anyone can redo i.e. enable USB again and fly away with your confidential data.
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