Methods, systems and computer readable media are provide for protecting stored data from ransomware. In an embodiment, the data is stored in an external drive connected to the processor. The connection between the processor and external drive is interrupted (e.g., open) except during a data transfer between the processor and the external drive. Connection of the processor to the external drive, permitted for a time period specified by a user or until the transfer of data is complete, occurs in response to manual actuation of a control means interposed between the processor and external drive and optionally, an indication from the user computing system that malware has not been detected on the device. The control means may be a mechanical switch or a fingerprint authentication device.