It happens without warning. Suddenly, access to your personal data gets interrupted by a simple hardware failure, a nasty virus, a cyberattack, a software glitch, accidental deletion or a human mistake. It’s clearer than ever that our
personal data
is vulnerable.
As a champion of privacy and security, and as the editor behind the widely-read CyberGuy Report, which you can sign up for without cost at
CyberGuy.com/newsletter
I have consistently stressed the significance of individual accountability regarding data protection.
I highly suggest safeguarding your valuable memories, essential paperwork, and all the individual information we gather by using a personal storage device for backing up everything.
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Spring is historically a season for cleansing, and this practice ought to include digital hygiene too. Every year, I conduct an extensive cleanup of my personal information, ensuring that I safeguard important files, cherished photographs, and other non-reproducible content through backups. The sense of security derived from possessing a tangible copy cannot be matched, placing authority securely in one’s own grasp regardless of external circumstances.
use a Mac
, whether it’s a PC or even a Chromebook.
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One of my go-to tools for this job is a
WD portable drive
This option provides 2 terabytes of storage space. You can quickly connect it to your device using SuperSpeed USB 3.0 for fast and effective data transfer, and it works seamlessly with Chromebooks. Such a dependable drive is essential; I have a comparable WD model that I utilize with both my MacBook and PC.
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Aside from routine continuous backups to the cloud or another drive, I also utilize this WD drive that connects to your Mac.
PC or Chromebook
As additional safeguarded storage for my crucial information, which I can separate and secure in a protected location remote from cybercriminals and potential hazards.
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When choosing which items to backup from your computer, it’s essential to focus on documents, files, and memories that hold significance and cannot be replaced. Below is an extensive checklist for you to review:
1. Personal documents
Include documents such as birth certificates, passports, Social Security cards, marriage licenses, wills, and other legal papers that might be challenging or tedious to replace.
2. Financial records
This section should include bank statements, tax returns, investment records, and other crucial financial documents necessary for individual record-keeping and adherence to legal requirements.
3. Photos and videos
Family photographs, vacation clips, significant occasions such as weddings or commencements, along with other irreplaceable personal moments.
4. Documents related to work and education
If you rely on your computer for tasks at work or school, make sure to backup crucial projects, research papers, presentations, and associated communications.
5. Emails
Some emails could include crucial details, contracts, or files that you might need later for reference. It’s wise to save these significant emails either through backup procedures or by organizing them into archives.
6. Contacts
A backup of your electronic contact list can prevent many issues should you lose access to your gadgets.
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7. Collections of music and media:
For individuals who gather music, movies, and books in digital format, safeguarding these files through backup guarantees that you won’t lose your collection.
8. Data from software and applications
Backup configurations and information from applications that you regularly utilize, particularly those aiding with organizing your calendar, handling financial matters, or monitoring well-being.
9. Website bookmarks
If you depend on bookmarks for efficient online navigation, backing them up can help save time if you have to restore your settings or move to a new device.
10. Saved games and user profiles
If you are into gaming, saving your game progresses and profiles helps avoid losing your advancement should there be a system malfunction.
11. Creative works
Include texts, artworks, design files, coding projects, or any other personal or professional creative outputs.
Implement the 3-2-1 backup method:
Make sure to keep three versions of your information: the primary one, another duplicated onto a separate device, and a final one saved remotely or online. This method provides strong safeguarding against losing your data.
Implement two-factor authentication (2FA):
Boost account security by activating
2FA,
mandating extra authentication measures apart from solely passwords, thus lowering the chances of unauthorized access.
Periodically upgrade and maintain system security:
Ensure your operating systems and software are up-to-date.
up to date
To tackle weaknesses that cyber threats could take advantage of.
Use strong antivirus software
Install reliable antivirus software to protect against ransomware, viruses, and harmful attacks that could jeopardize your files.
Check out my selections for the top 2025 antivirus protection choices for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS gadgets.
.
Refresh your passwords for enhanced security:
A crucial step in safeguarding your information is frequently changing your passwords to stop illicit entry. Below is guidance on accomplishing this efficiently:
-
Use a password manager
— Rather than depending on your memory, utilize a reliable source.
password manager
prefer to create and keep secure complex passwords. -
Enable two-factor authentication (
2FA
)
— Enhance security further by implementing a second form of authentication, like a single-use code sent through SMS or generated using an authenticator application. -
Create unique passwords
— Stay secure by not using duplicate passwords for different accounts. Ensure each password consists of a minimum of 12 characters and includes a combination of upper case letters, lower case letters, digits, and special symbols. -
Check for compromised passwords
— Utilize services that detect password breaches
.
Some services
i
Include a data breach scanner that verifies if your saved passwords have been exposed and recommends changes. -
Modify the default passwords for your router and connected devices.
If you’re still employing the standard login details for your Wi-Fi router, smart home gadgets, or web-based profiles, change them right away to avoid potential security threats.
Find additional information about my
top expert-vetted password managers for 2025 listed below.
Updating passwords together with other spring-cleaning security steps can greatly minimize the chances of falling victim to cyber threats and prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your confidential information.
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Spending a little time safeguarding your information and gadgets now can prevent considerable hassle, emotional distress, and monetary setbacks later. Consistent backups along with reliable anti-virus programs collaborate effectively to guard your online world. Disconnect your storage device once done and keep it in a secure location—a minor action that yields significant benefits.
What’s your tale of a ‘data catastrophe,’ and what insights have you gained regarding digital backups from this experience? Share your thoughts with us by sending an email.
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Alert:
Malware pilfers banking card details and passwords from millions of devices.
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Original article source:
Safeguard your documents and cherished moments using easy spring cleaning strategies.
