How do you keep your rogue employees from committing "Pocket Fraud?" If you are a security company, you start by targeting the iPod as a theft tool, and then sell your desktop security products. The startup security company NextSentry is doing just that by highlighting the potential that an iPod can be used as a data storage device along with other MP3 players and digital cameras.

A company statement reads "NextSentry more frequently catches trusted employees misusing critical channels like printing, Web, instant messaging and traditional mass storage devices to leak confidential data to the outside world. However, the company believes removable media, especially iPods and MP3s, will quickly become the Pocket Fraud tool of choice."

In essence, the company is saying that iPods currently don't pose nearly the data security threat that a simple inkjet printer does, but they are certain they will. NextSentry's solution: Buy our software.

True, an iPod is a storage device, just like memory sticks, USB Flash drives, and portable hard drives, all of which can potentially be used to copy and store data without authorization. But prohibiting iPods in the workplace isn't likely to stop disgruntled employees and industrial spies since most cell phones include digital cameras which are perfect for snapping a quick screenshot - and many employees are issued company laptops that leave the office with sensitive information.

Prohibiting removable storage devices in certain work environments makes sense, but NextSentry's proclamation against iPods and other media players feels more like a marketing ploy - one that takes advantage of the iPod's popularity.