Dobbins continues ban on flash media Published March 10, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Jennifer K. Meeks Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Flash media is a type of portable memory storage that uses a microchip and allows a user to easily transfer information from devices such as computers and digital cameras. It comes in many forms, most commonly flash drives and memory sticks. It is the ease of information transfer, however, that makes flash media a liability. Unlike other methods of memory storage such as compact discs, viruses or worms can be introduced to flash media when connected to a contaminated computer without the knowledge or intent of its user and spread to other computers. A worm known as "Agent.btz" spread in this fashion, affecting the Department of Defense and sparking its decision in Nov. 2008 to ban the use of flash media on its computers. "Safeguarding the network involves protecting not only tangible information such as records and files, but the intangible, which is often a more challenging task," said Leslie A. Walker, information protection specialist, 94th Communications Flight. In order to prevent the incident of 2008, military members are encouraged to use CDs or other non-microchip methods, which are accessed by the computer by a spinning part or parts, for memory storage. "We have a saying, 'If it spins, it wins,'" Walker said. Walker also noted that while the main method of implementing the ban on flash media is currently advertisement and education, she would not be surprised to see more advanced means in the future. One example, she said, is a hidden program that would randomly scan the computer for any connected flash drives. If any are detected, that computer's user information would be documented on another computer. Until then, the newly migrated computer system forces the user's attention with a pop-up window after booting that lists types of flash media not allowed on base computers. Walker said she believes this will be more effective education than previous methods. While the flash media ban does not include personal computers, Walker recommended always maintaining a personal level of caution and security regarding phishing and other methods used to solicit personal information. "Many people keep financial documents on their personal computers and pay their bills online," Walker said. "Be more aware, even at home."
