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March 31st is World Backup Day, a day to remind us to make sure our important information is protected. We’ve covered basic cybersecurity and next steps if you’re a victim of an online scam on the blog, and today we’re going to look into why backing up data is important and the necessary steps to take.  

Why do I need to back up my data? 

• If a phone or computer is lost/stolen/or has hazardous software from a scammer, all important files could be lost forever.  
• 30% of all computers are infected with Malware.  
• 29% of data loss is caused by accidents.  
• 70 million phones are lost each year. 
• Power surges, such as from storms, can fry electronics.  

What type of files should I make sure to back up? 

• Contacts  
• Photos/videos 
• Legal documents 
• Other important documents 

Backing up your computer 

• Mac via Apple  
• Windows/PC via Microsoft  
• Using a flash drive/thumb drive 
  • Flash drives (also called “thumb drives”) are small, portable hard drives the size of your thumb that can be inserted into your computer’s USB drive. 
  • How to Back Up Data to a USB Flash Drive via the University of Delaware. 

• Using a CD/DVD 
• • Much like using a thumb drive, you can burn important files to a data CD/DVD (depending on how much space you need) by putting a blank disc in your computer’s disc drive and using software to create a data disc.  
  • While this is an easy backup method, it’s complicated by the lack of disc drives in most newer computers. 

• Using an external hard drive 
  • External hard drives are small devices you can plug into your computer to back up information. They can be purchased at stores like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target for around $100 (look for sales around graduation time and Father’s Day).  
  • Here’s a great overview of on external hard drives and how to use them via Illinois Wesleyan University. 

• Paper copies 
  • This is one of the easiest ways to create extra copies, especially since most libraries offer printing services for a small fee. Make sure you have a binder, file folder, or other safe place to store your papers.  

Backing up your phone 

• Android via Wired 
• iPhone via Apple 

Backing up your contacts 

• Android via Google 
• iPhone 
  • Keeping contacts updated with iCloud via Apple 
  • Exporting contacts via Apple 

Other steps to take 

• Make sure you have extra copies of important documents. 
• Do you have a backup plan if someone you rely on isn’t available?  
• Whenever possible setup automatic backups so it’s one less thing you have to think about! 

Need extra help with backing up your computer? Visit this blog post for a list of computer assistance programs in Washtenaw County. Check your local senior centers for Smartphone 101 classes.