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Encrypting USB memory sticks and drives

From Jan 2021 the use of USB memory storage devices by staff is prohibited across the University of Warwick in order to be compliant with ICO guidance.

If you have a clear need to continue using USB memory storage devices please contact us to discuss. There is a process to request an exemption to this policy and we can help you to navigate this.

If you try to plug a USB memory storage device into a computer at the University of Warwick it should not work and you will receive some kind of warning message, such as 'Device cannot be access' or 'Access prohibited'. This is by design.

Staff Apple Mac users who have an exemption from the central IDG (Information and Digital Group) to continue to use USB memory storage devices can find advice here on how to encrypt these.