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
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- 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
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.
