While it can be hard to recall exactly how we functioned before the digital era, we need to remember that we haven’t been so connected for that long. Less than a generation ago, there was no internet, no cellphones, and no social media. As we adjust to the new digital typical, we all need to be learning what we can about data and information security. The following will explore some easy steps you can take to help you guard your files against hacking.
Do My Files Need Protection?
Of course, the final say will be up to you. If you feel like your files contain nothing sensitive, that’s your call, but you should know that in 2018 alone, it is estimated that hackers stole nearly half a billion personal records. The more information you have available to others, the more likely it is that someone will be able to put all that data together and access your more critical and personal data.
Password Protect Your Devices
Requiring passwords for access to your laptop, tablet, computer, or phone can work as a first layer of protection. Of course, if you use one of the most common passwords when doing this, there’s almost no point. Super common passwords can be hacked sometimes within seconds.
Creating good passwords can seem like taking a shot in the dark, but it doesn’t have to. Once you understand how hackers use computer programs to decipher passcodes, you’ll be able to understand what contributes to a strong password. You also don’t want to be using the same passwords for everything.
Create Additional Passwords For Your Sensitive Files
In addition to password protecting your devices, you might want to consider an additional password for specific folders or files. This is quick and easy to do, and if the password is different than the one needed to access your device, you have effectively doubled your protection. Taking a few minutes to password protect a zip file can mean the difference between being hacked and a data thief moving onto another target with minimal security. Nearly every type of file or folder can have a password added.
Consider Encrypting Files
If you have highly sensitive data, like credit card information, address information, student loan account numbers, or something of this nature stored in a document, consider using a program to encrypt the files. There are several programs you can use to do this. All you have to do is select the file and a password, and the program will do the work for you.
Install Antivirus Software
Did you know that viruses do a lot more than annoy you and make it impossible to use your device? Many viruses also steal information while they’re working. To reduce the chances of this type of data theft, make sure that you have a reliable antivirus program running on your device and that you don’t download any suspicious files.
Avoid Unsecured Networks
When you are using public internet or wifi, you will be informed by your device whether the network is secured or not. Do not use the unsecured networks if you want to limit the risk of your information and files ending up somewhere they don’t belong. This might be mildly annoying as most free wifi is unsecured, but it can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.
Turn Off Autocomplete
Do you know that nifty auto-complete option your phone has that fills in the word you’re most likely meaning when you type in messenger or notes? That tool opens you up for hacking. Turn that off to make sure that hackers have to put in the effort to access the files on your phone, in your email, and your personal messages.
With the above tips kept in mind, you’re well on your way to ensuring that your files are well protected from wandering eyes and data thieves. Of course, suppose you handle highly sensitive or dangerous information (especially other people’s data). In that case, you should consider consulting with a security team to make sure you’re doing everything possible to protect yourself and those who have trusted you with their information. This is especially important for businesses that collect personal data belonging to their employees or customers or if financial transactions are included in the files you keep.
A little due diligence in the present can save you from massive headaches in the future. Data has just surpassed oil as the most highly valued commodity on Earth. More and more hackers understand how much they stand to gain from collecting people’s information and selling it to the highest bidder.
