The UK-based security company SecureData has released two hardware-encrypted portable data storage devices that feature secure wireless user authentication: the SecureDrive BT hard drive and the SecureUSB BT flash drive.

SecureData SecureDrive CES 2019 1

Previous generations, like the secure USB KP, come with an onboard keypad to unlock the device using a PIN.

SecureData SecureDrive CES 2019 2

Being the first of their kind, the SecureDrive BT and SecureUSB BT received a CES 2019 Innovation Award in the computer accessories category. They were also awarded in the cyber security and personal privacy categories.

Users can unlock the AES256-bit XTS encrypted device using the DataLock mobile app, which is available for Android and iOS. For Apple users, the app supports TouchID, FaceID, and unlocking from the Apple Watch.

By default, the app comes with a remote wipe feature. In a corporate or government environment, administrators can manage user device access, review access logs, and unlock additional app features through the secure web-based DataLock BT Web Console, provided by SecureData's partner ClevX. The subscription-based web console is an optional service.

SecureData SecureDrive CES 2019 3

The console also allows geo and time-fencing, meaning users can unlock the app only within a pre-defined area or time. The geofencing feature requires a GPS connection to unlock the storage unit. SecureData did not comment on how they could protect the app against geo spoofing.

Since the encryption happens on the device itself, you can use the SecureData BT and the SecureUSB BT with any operating system and device, as long as it has a USB port. This means you could plug it into your TV or printer.

The SecureDrive BT is available as an HDD (1-5TB) or SSD (150GB to 8TB).

The SecureUSB BT is available in 16, 32, and 64GB versions.

When bought directly through SecureData, both devices include a one-year subscription for the web-based management console.

Many competitors offer hardware-encrypted storage devices with a keypad, but SecureData is the first to hit the market with an app-based wireless solution. While the wireless unlock mechanism is a potential weak spot, it does feature state-of-the-art encryption and replaces a keypad that could wear down over time.