Vendor Warns of USB Threat

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Centennial Software, a developer of IT security and asset management solutions, issued a security alert today regarding a new endpoint security threat called USBDumper (http://www.secuobs.com/news/07062006-sstic_usbdumper.shtml). This hacking tool is designed to silently copy files off any USB flash drive connected to a PC and makes an image of the drive enabling someone with malicious intent to steal data or even use recovery tools to retrieve deleted material. In order to combat this and related threats, Centennial is offering a free 30-day trial of its award-winning endpoint security software, DeviceWall.

"USBDumper is a unique and dangerous application because it takes a completely new approach to data theft. Traditionally, data thieves have been using portable storage devices to download information from computers," said Brian McCarthy, vice president for Centennial Software.

"USBDumper is different because it resides on the PC and silently steals data from a connected drive. This application poses a real challenge for today's mobile worker and reinforces the need to encrypt information on USB drives, especially if you're taking that data into a foreign environment."

Centennial Software Ltd.