- The Aegis DT FIPS padlock processes PIN codes on the device, not the connected computer
- This reader works where software encryption cannot, including embedded systems.
- Epoxy coating and locked firmware prevent physical tampering and BadUSB attacks on the DT FIPS padlock
Most businesses believe that encrypting their sensitive data is sufficient, but encryption only matters if the keys and authentication methods remain out of reach of attackers.
Software encryption tools leave these secrets exposed on the host computer, where keyloggers, screen scrapers, and remote access Trojans can easily capture them.
To help solve this problem, Apricorn has expanded its Aegis Padlock DT FIPS line with a new 32TB model that completely removes the host system from the security equation.
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Encryption that never touches your computer
“Offline encrypted storage plays a critical role in broader data protection and resiliency strategies,” said Kurt Markley, CEO of Apricorn.
The DT FIPS padlock performs all authentication directly on the device using an integrated keypad, meaning no PIN code ever touches the connected computer.
Users enter their code into the secure reader itself, and it handles all encryption and decryption internally via Apricorn’s proprietary AegisWare firmware.
It eliminates exposure to keyloggers, memory scrapers, and other endpoint-based attacks that impact software solutions.
This external hard drive secures data in real time as information is written, and PIN codes and stored data remain encrypted while the drive remains inactive.
The firmware is locked to prevent modification, making the drive immune to attacks from malware such as BadUSB, which can reprogram regular USB drives.
What the device offers for its price
The 32TB model costs a whopping $1,999.00 and joins 12 other capacities ranging from the 2TB model, which costs $289.00.
This drive allows organizations to consolidate massive data sets onto a single device that can be completely isolated from network-based threats.
All internal components are protected against physical alteration with a layer of cured epoxy.
It carries FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation, certification number 4528 from NIST, confirming that it meets strict government security standards.
It also offers 256-bit AES XTS hardware encryption, software-free setup and operation, and cross-platform compatibility with Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and Chrome.
This reader works where software encryption cannot, including embedded systems, diagnostic machines, and any powered USB device with file storage.
Padlock DT FIPS data transfer runs over a USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, which provides up to 5 Gbps and remains backward compatible with USB 3.0, 2.0 and 1.1.
The drive includes an 8MB buffer and an average seek time of 12 milliseconds, and it can withstand shocks of up to 70GB while running and 250GB when powered off.
There are some disadvantages
While the concept of removing the host computer from the security chain is technically sound, Apricorn’s solution only solves one piece of a much larger puzzle.
A drive that remains offline is safe from remote attackers, but as soon as someone connects it to a computer to read or write data, the integrity of the system becomes relevant again.
The keypad prevents PIN theft, but it does not prevent an attacker with physical access from simply taking the reader.
Organizations purchasing this device will still need to manage who has access to it, where it is stored, and which computers it is connected to.
The hardware is secure, but the humans using it remain the weak link.
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