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How do I stop USB sticks from auto-running things?

Since Windows 10, autorun is restricted by default, but autoplay (preview prompt when plugging in) is not. Worth disabling in business settings.

Try this first

  1. 1Per laptop quick fix: Settings > Bluetooth & devices > AutoPlay. Turn the main toggle off. Done for that one laptop.
  2. 2Central via Intune: Devices > Configuration > Templates > Administrative Templates > 'Turn off Autoplay' set to 'Enabled' for 'All drives'.
  3. 3Stricter policy: block USB storage access entirely. In Intune under 'Endpoint Security > Attack Surface Reduction'. Makes USB sticks unusable, communicate first.
  4. 4Exceptions: staff who must read customer USB sticks. Create an exception for them or use an isolated 'reading-station' laptop.
  5. 5Test: plug in a USB. No autoplay prompt anymore? Working.

When to bring us in

Full USB lockdown on all devices usually meets resistance (people want to bring presentations on a stick). We advise a middle ground per role.

See also

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