More than ever, there are so many ways to store valuable bits of personal information. Gone are the days where every document or photo had to be kept in book or file. Nowadays, just about anything can be scanned, printed, and stored via hard drive or other methods. The future offers us plenty of options, and it grows every year.
However, abstract electronic data isn’t without its risks. Whether you’re storing on a cloud service, a file sharing service, in email, on HDD or other places, this data can always be compromised. Hardware failure, service loss, theft and even natural disaster can compromise important files. So in preparation for the worst, here’s a few ways you can ready up and protect your online data.
Personal browsing and VPNs
Internet freedoms have certainly taken blows over the years, and there are more attempts to pry into your security than ever. Adware, data trackers and all sorts of spies watch your activity to make a sale. To combat this, VPN’s are an excellent solution. Encrypted connections hide your IP with another without impairing speed. While search data doesn’t sound major, who’s to say it belongs to everyone? You don’t build a fence so strangers can peep through it.
Avoid executables from non-reputable websites
Any type of unfamiliar .exe extension should be avoided with sensitive info. This is the same as avoiding viral or malware infections. Your data may as well be moot if you happen to get a bad infection, which can compromise your HDD depending on the severity of the virus itself.
Cloud back ups
While you can physically back up an entire hard disk with an external HDD, you can also store data on various cloud sites. While there is cost to the service, enormous hosts of data are protected by third parties (or your own personal cloud), meaning even if something on your end is lost, it’s always safe in the electronic hemisphere. Be wary not to rely on it completely, as even cloud can suffer from issues thanks to unforeseen disasters.
Maintain complex passwords
It might sound like a given but many people overlook the need for varied and hard to crack passwords. For your phone, PC, tablet or whatever other device can access important information online, keeping it under lock and key is just as important.
Firewalls and program security
The most basic defense your systems have when traversing the net are firewalls, which keep hackers from hijacking important data. Just as well, all your programs regarding anti-virus software should be up to date. Consider script controlling extensions for web browsers (Like NoScript) which stop bad sites from loading infections completely.
Remember, data can be compromised from various external factors. It’s important to cover all ends and make sure you’ve got the best looking out for your personal or business related security. If you’re looking for more information on how to keep your data safe, Stratosphere Networks can help. Our experienced IT professionals can provide solutions to keep your business information safe and secure. Give us a call at (877) 599-3999 or fill out our contact form.
