Data loss refers to any incident that renders data bytes unusable by its owner or inaccessible by the programs that ordinarily should be able to reach them. This can occur in different ways leading to the deletion, inaccessibility, destruction, or corruption of data and/or their files.
This data loss can either be intentional or accidental. When data loss is orchestrated intentionally, the compromised computer or system is broken into but accidental data loss can happen when a liquid, for instance, spills on a PC.
PC data loss is a common occurrence and given the great import of data in many industries today, the implication of data loss is far-reaching both economically and security-wise. Hence, you must adopt the following measures to prevent both personal and professional data loss from your computer.
How To Save Your Computer From Data Loss
1. Backup your data
Backing up your data is one of the most efficient ways of preventing data loss. Backups give you access to your data on different media should there be a loss on the primary medium, which is usually your computer. To make your backup system more effective, specifically, if you are working with macOS Ventura, it is ideal to follow for better understanding and expert hand by having backups.
However, the above-provided solution can be of great assistance if you are having trouble backing up or using data on Mac devices. Having two copies of crucial data is another practice that is suggested in order to ensure that nothing is ever lost.
2. Utilising encryption technologies
Data can be stolen by bad actors at any point in its handling. It could be during transmission, processing, or even storage. An important aspect of preventing data loss is ensuring the security and privacy of all parties whose data are collected are protected.
But for many companies, their databases are hosted online or can be intercepted at any stage and stolen. However, with encryption, stolen data becomes useless to anyone who is not authorised to access the data. They either do not understand it or are unable to use it in the form they receive it in.
3. Embrace firewall and antivirus software installation
Most cyberattacks that lead to data compromise, loss, and theft are usually sent by cybercriminals through different types of malware. Fortunately, anti-virus software and firewalls can be installed to protect your computer from these malicious attacks.
They work by scanning your device regularly for viruses, programs or even messages that carry harmful extensions or attachments. Sometimes, these malware seek unauthorised access to key files in your computer but are restricted by the installed anti-virus softwares.
4. Monitor and properly regulate all equipment
Besides losing data in your PC device to external attacks, unintentional incidents can lead to data loss. To check these occurrences, you must develop policies and/or protocols that aim to monitor and properly regulate your computer and all relevant equipment you use to store your data.
Some of these protocols include:
- Creating a password policy for generating passwords that will be used to protect access to your computer
- Implementing a no-liquid policy around your computer
- Installing a UPS to prevent data loss due to fluctuations in power supply and voltage.
Bottom line
Prevention of data loss can save you or your business legal battles, financial losses, a bad reputation, and even productive man-hours. Maintenance of your computer will go a long way in helping you prevent data loss. If the fan of your PC is broken, fix it immediately to avoid overheating the hard drives of your device and subsequent data loss.