We all know that businesses apply a lot of data security programs, but did you know that you could do the same thing at home to keep your date more safe? Here are a few the things you could do to keep your data and personal information safer at home:
- Review all the sensitive information that is kept in your home and on your electronic devices. Check all the old folders, boxes, and even electronic devices that you’re not using any more.
- Decide which information and documents are still relevant, and destroy and shred the ones that aren’t. Some of the paper documents can be scanned and put on a password protected drive. This will save you space and make it easier to find things when needed.
- Limit what you carry in your purse and wallet when you go out. There is no need to bring all your credit cards and checkbooks every single time. If you’re not going to Home Depot or Target, leave those credit cards at home. Bring only your ID and a few cards that you’re planning on using.
- Keep your ID’s and financial documents safe and locked at home and at work.
- Make sure your home WIFI network is private and password protected.
- Change your devices and WIFI passwords frequently and don’t share them with anyone.
- Turn on antivirus and software auto updates on all your devices. This way you will have the latest updates and protection.
- Watch out for phishing scam emails and do not click on random links even though they seem legit. Call and verify first. Sometimes these emails will appear like they’re coming from your banking institution and will ask you to log in to your account to ‘verify’ something, while the whole purpose is to capture your login credentials.
- Watch out for suspicious phone calls asking for your personal information or demanding an immediate payment over the phone.
- Go through your mail and documents once a week and shred all the credit offers, receipts, bills and bank statements that you don’t need any more.
This list is not all inclusive. We know there are many other things that you can do, but even if you just implement a few of the things on this list, your home and your data will be much safer. Data loss prevention is your best protection and it is much easier and less painful than dealing with the aftermath of losing your data.
