Encrypt your files. If you will only be exchanging files with other Windows XP or Vistas users, USB thumbdrives featuring hardware-based 256-bit AES encryption from vendors such as Kanguru Solutions,  Kingston Technology and Lexar Media will provide the highest level of security. However, if you have a mixture of MacOS and Windows PCs, consider the Lexar JumpDrive Secure II Plus, which offers software-based 128-bit AES encryption.

If you prefer to build your own security solution that can work with any USB drive and all popular operating systems, take a look at TrueCrypt, a free open-source disk encryption program for Windows Vista/XP, MacOS X, and Linux.

Stopping the Thumbdrive Threat - Your Way

So, what's your favorite method for preventing thumbdrive security headaches (we bet that applying HeadOn isn't one of them)? Have you found yourself up a creek because you let a thumbdrive get away? Ever leave one behind at a client's office (I did, but he was honest and called me right away). Let us know via the comments section.