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Unapproved USB devices will be blocked starting June 1

The cybersecurity action will not affect a mouse, keyboard or monitor

A woman’s hand is shown connecting a flash drive to a laptop
The Postal Service prohibits the use of unapproved flash drives and other USB devices.

The Postal Service will begin blocking all unapproved USB mass storage devices on ACE computers starting June 1.

Employees and contractors who connect an unapproved flash drive, external hard drive or smartphone may see a pop-up message saying: “Device Blocked by SentinelOne — USB device blocked. Your organization does not allow you to use this device.”

Devices such as a mouse, keyboard or external monitor will not be blocked.

Employees and contractors who need an approved USB device for storing and transmitting USPS information can purchase one through eBuy Plus or contact their manager.

The organization is taking this measure to strengthen cybersecurity and reduce the potential for data leaks or other network breaches.

The Postal Service prohibits the use of unapproved USB devices. Employees and contractors who receive multiple blocking messages could face an investigation.

The Postal Inspection Service is taking its own approach to blocking unauthorized USB devices. The agency’s ACE users will receive separate communications with details and specific actions.

The Unauthorized USB Device Initiative Blue page has more information. Employees and contractors with questions can email the insider risk team.