Have you thought about USB as a network?

I read an interesting article that really got me thinking about the security of our operational technology (OT) and IT networks and devices.

The idea is USB having a back-door to OT assets by creating its own networks and exposing itself to other networks. 

We may have entire networks we don’t even know are there! 

The article shows how effective a USB drive can be as a Cyberthreat.   

Amazing what they're doing and coming out with today. Here's a clever little cable that looks like a Apple charger that hides a tiny webserver, 802.11 radio and large memory and processing power inside. Hackers will leave USB Drives on doorsteps and parking lots. We may start seeing stray iPhone chargers.

How are you protecting your OT assets from the threat of USB devices?

Are you giving USB security the same focus as network security?

Fun Fact: 90+% of randomly found USB drives are picked up by the casual person and more than half are plugged into a PC. Source: Kapersky