Last week, concern was raised that a USB flash drive infected with a virus had been sent to local government entities, purportedly from one of their statewide associations. While we do not think this event was widespread, it does highlight the dangers of a USB flash drive, even when it appears to come from a trusted source.

Please note, USB flash drives do represent significant risk for viruses and malware. As such, three simple steps are recommended prior to utilizing any USB flash drive:

1. If you receive a USB flash drive, then determine whether this was expected or not;
2. Verify that the source did indeed send the USB drive
3. Run an anti-virus scan

Additional information regarding cyber security is available on the TMLIRP website, www.tmlirp.org; login and look for the eRiskHub link.