In a world where digital data is as precious as gold, safeguarding it has become a vital necessity. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Emily Harrison, a seasoned IT consultant, to discuss her personal approach to digital security, focusing on the importance of using USB backups and cloud backups, fortified by strong multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Emily, who has been in the IT industry for over a decade, began our conversation by reflecting on the countless horror stories she’s encountered—individuals and businesses losing invaluable data due to negligence or cyber-attacks. “I’ve seen it all,” she sighed, “from the small business owner who lost years of financial records to the student who lost their entire thesis the night before submission.”
For Emily, the solution is simple but requires diligence: “Use USB backups and cloud backups for everything you don’t want to lose,” she advised with the conviction of someone who knows the stakes all too well. “But,” she added, “make sure any cloud service is protected by STRONG MFA, such as a Yubikey.”
Emily explained that her process begins with identifying what data is critical. “You need to decide what you absolutely cannot afford to lose,” she said. For her, this includes personal memories like family photos and professional data like client records and project files. Once identified, Emily uses a two-pronged approach to protect this information.
“First, I use USB backups,” Emily explained. “It’s an old-school method, but it’s effective. I have a routine—every week, I back up my most important files onto a physical USB drive. It’s a tangible safeguard against digital mishaps. Plus, with encryption, I know my data is secure even if the drive is lost or stolen.”
However, Emily is quick to acknowledge the limitations of relying solely on physical backups. “USBs can fail, get lost, or become corrupted,” she noted. “That’s why cloud backups are equally crucial.” Emily uses a reputable cloud service to store her data, ensuring it’s accessible from anywhere in the world. “The cloud offers convenience and an additional layer of security,” she said, “but it’s not without its own risks.”
This is where strong MFA comes into play. “Strong MFA is non-negotiable,” Emily emphasized. “A simple password is no longer enough to keep your data safe.” She recommends using a hardware security key, such as a Yubikey, to add an extra layer of protection. “It’s a physical device that you plug into your computer or connect via NFC to your phone, and it requires your physical presence to access your accounts. It’s almost impossible for hackers to bypass.”
When asked about the challenges of implementing such a security regimen, Emily acknowledged that it requires a bit of a learning curve and a commitment to staying organised. “It’s easy to set and forget,” she admitted, “but the key is consistency. Make it a habit, like brushing your teeth.”
Emily also stressed the importance of keeping up with technology and regularly reviewing one’s security measures. “Threats are constantly evolving,” she warned. “It’s vital to stay informed about the latest security practices and update your methods accordingly.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Emily offered some practical tips for those looking to enhance their digital security. “Start small,” she suggested. “Begin by identifying your critical data and backing it up. Then, gradually implement more robust security measures like MFA. And always keep learning—attend webinars, read articles, and engage with the tech community.”
Emily’s approach is a reminder of the importance of taking proactive steps to protect our digital lives. In an era where data is as valuable as currency, safeguarding it with USB and cloud backups, coupled with strong MFA, is not just wise—it’s essential. Her insights provide a roadmap for anyone looking to navigate the digital world securely, ensuring that their data remains safe from the myriad threats lurking in the cyber shadows.
In the end, Emily’s message is clear: “Don’t wait for a crisis to realise the importance of backups and security. Protect your data now, and you’ll thank yourself later.”
Written by Lilianna Stolarz