USB thumb drives are everywhere! Heck, I just went to Best Buy and picked one myself earlier today. With the rebates, ease of use, plus a bout a zillion other benefits, not having one almost makes no sense. On the flip side however, they are becoming a bit of a security concern. Many businesses have flat out banned these devices since they are so quick and easy use.

Having basically replaced floppy disks as the portable media of choice for small amounts of PC data, USB flash drives are pursuing more widespread adoption, sporting faster data transfer speeds, advanced features for desktop mobility and security, and lower prices.

However, that very popularity and versatility make them security risks for businesses, according to a recent report from Gartner Research, which recommends that companies consider forbidding the use of uncontrolled, privately owned devices on their equipment. The U.S. Department of Energy already has banned USB flash drives and other portable storage, such as Apple IPods, from the workplace, saying copying and stealing sensitive data with them is just too easy.