When you first initialize your IronKey, you create a password for that device. This password must be entered after you plug your IronKey into a computer’s USB port. The encrypted drive will only mount and be accessible if the password is correct. To prevent unauthorized people or crimeware (malicious software such as viruses and Trojans) from gaining access to your encrypted drive, the IronKey prevents password guessing attacks (e.g. brute-force or dictionary attacks).
After 10 incorrect password attempts (and ample warnings), the IronKey locks out all further password attempts. It initiates a patent-pending self-destruct sequence that securely and permanently erases your encryption keys and data. You can use IronKey’s Secure Backup software to restore your backed-up data to a new IronKey.
