To protect our University from cyber-attack and data loss, the use of USB storage devices was restricted on the 1st June 2021.

What changed?

The use of USB storage devices is now restricted to read only for staff and contractors.

The changes allowed data already stored on removable USB storage devices to be read, however it's not be possible to write new data to these devices from any University PC or mac.

Examples of removeable USB storage devices are:

• Memory sticks - sometimes known as pen drives, flash drives, or encrypted memory sticks
• External hard drives - including 'internal' drives used via a dock
• Mobile devices used as external storage drives - e.g. smartphones

USB devices which are simply powered by USB, and contain no data storage function, continue to work as usual.

Who is affected?

These new controls will affect University staff and contractors.  USB storage has been changed to 'read only'. Students do not have the same level of access to University data as staff, therefore their ability to save work to USB drives to support their studies will remain unchanged.

When did the change take effect?

1st June 2021. Please consider alternative file storage options to support your business processes.

What to use instead:

All staff at the University of Derby are encouraged to use OneDrive for Business as an alternative to portable storage options.

With OneDrive you have access to 1TB of personal cloud storage with your University Microsoft 365 account. Say goodbye to hunting for, or forgetting your memory sticks, you can access OneDrive anytime, on any device.

Get started with Microsoft's OneDrive Help & Learning resources.

I need to use USB storage for my business processes - there is no viable alternative, what do I do?

The controls have been discussed with department and College management teams, and the University has recognised that there may be a need for exemption to enable certain staff to carry out specific processes. 

If you believe that you have a legitimate business need to write data to USB portable storage devices, please discuss this with your department or College management team and raise a ticket with the IT Service Centre - Submit a request – IT Services - University of Derby