Secure data solutions provider iStorage has launched what it claims to be the world's first FIPS 140-3 Level 3 flash drives. Known under its Kanguru brand, the iStorage datAshur PRO+C & PRO+A Encrypted Flash Drives are equipped with PIN protection and military-grade hardware encryption, available in capacities ranging from 32GB to 512GB. Available on Amazon.com, these drives start at $96 for a 32GB model and go up to $259 for a 512GB stick, reflecting the premium price for such high-level security.

John Michael, CEO of iStorage/Kanguru, stated that achieving FIPS 140-3 Level 3 validation adds significant credibility to the brand and underscores their commitment to providing secure data storage solutions. The new standard, which includes advancements like tamper-evident mechanisms and improved cryptographic algorithms, is set to replace FIPS 140-2 by September 2026.

The datAshur PRO+C drives come with a keypad for entering the PIN, and all data is protected by AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption until unlocked. The drives are also rugged, with wear-resistant keypad buttons, epoxy-coated key components, and IP57 certification for dust and water resistance. Performance-wise, they offer speeds of up to 310 MB/s read and 246 MB/s write.