Have you ever worried about losing important data or having it stolen? Exactly what measures do you use Data Storage Security?.
With cloud storage, it’s simple to synchronize and share files and store and access numerous versions of the same file. Cloud storage is no longer merely for backup purposes; for some users, it has replaced the hard disk.
If you need more space or other capabilities, you may upgrade to a subscription plan on cloud data storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive. However, with data breaches and cybercrime on the rise, it’s important to take steps to protect your data, whether it’s stored on your computer or in the cloud.
Keep reading for tips on how to keep your data safe.
Data Storage Security: Ways to Keep Your Data Secure
Use Strong Passwords
If you’re storing your data in the cloud or on a device that others can access, it’s important to use strong passwords to protect your data. Strong passwords are long, random, and difficult to guess. They should not be easily guessed by someone who knows you or uses common dictionary words.
Strong passwords are those that are both lengthy and unpredictable. Don’t ever use the same login information for more than one service at a time.
All of your accounts are exposed if just one of them is corrupted. So, use a different password for each website or app you use.
In addition, you should think about utilizing a password manager to help you remember all of your numerous passwords. This way, instead of needing to keep track of a wide variety of passwords, you can just keep track of one.
Safe Keep Your Data Backed Up
Taking the time to create backups of your data is an essential first step in keeping it safe. There are a number of ways to back up your data, and the best method for you will depend on your needs.
For example, if you have a lot of data or if you need to access it from multiple devices, you may want to consider using a cloud-based storage system. Cloud-based storage systems allow you to access your data from anywhere and typically offer more space than local storage options.
If you only have a few files or only need to access your data from one device, you may be able to get it by using an external hard drive or USB drive. Whichever method you choose, it’s important to make sure that you regularly back up your data to restore it if something happens to your original copies.
Encrypt Your Data
Encryption is a method through which information is converted from a readable format into one that is unreadable to the naked eye. Anyone who doesn’t know the encryption key will have a hard time deciphering your data.
So, if you’re storing sensitive data, you should encrypt it. Encryption is available from many cloud storage security providers, or you can utilize a third-party encryption application.
Just make sure to choose an encryption method that is strong and that you understand how to use it.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
With two-factor authentication, you must verify your identity with not one but two distinct pieces of information. For the most part, two-factor authentication consists of having a code delivered to your phone or email in order to log in.
Alternatively, you might use a fingerprint or facial recognition scan. Two-factor authentication is a great way to keep your online identity protected because it makes it much more challenging for cybercriminals to access your accounts.
So, if you haven’t already, set up two-factor authentication for all your key accounts. Although it may be inconvenient at times, the added protection offered by two-factor authentication is well worth the effort. It might just spare you from becoming a victim of a major breach.
Actively Manage Shared Files
It is common practice to send a recipient’s email address and a link when sharing a folder or file. Once an email is sent, the information it contains should be secure against further intrusion.
However, you may wish to revoke access to previously shared links to files and folders. If you don’t, a malicious user could potentially discover the link and use it to steal your sensitive information.
Every cloud storage provider offers a mechanism to control the files and URLs that have been shared, so keep tabs on those.
Manage Cloud-Connected Devices
The freedom to access data regardless of where you happen to be maybe both an advantage and a burden. Therefore, you should manage the devices associated with your account and terminate any sessions that you believe may pose a security risk to keep your account safe from unauthorized access.
Be Careful What You Share
When you’re sharing data, whether it’s through email, social media, or another service, you should be careful about what information you’re sharing. Make sure that you’re only sharing data with people who need to see it and that you’re not including any sensitive information that they could use to exploit you or your data.
Keep in mind that once something is shared, it is often impossible to retrieve it. Do not immediately send the message without giving it some serious consideration.
Update Your Software
One of the most effective ways to ensure the safety of your data is always to use the most recent version of any software you use. Anything on your device, including the operating system, browser, programs, and everything else there, is to be found on your device.
Software developers release updates that patch those holes when they find security vulnerabilities. Therefore, keeping up with software upgrades is necessary if you want to safeguard yourself against big security threats.
Plus, many updates also include new features and performance improvements, so it’s a good idea to stay current for those reasons.
Use A Secure Connection
When you’re accessing your data, whether it’s on your own computer or a remote server, you should always use a secure connection. That means using a protocol like HTTPS or SSH instead of HTTP or unencrypted FTP. These protocols encrypt your data so that even if someone can intercept it, they won’t be able to read it.
Therefore, use a secure connection whenever you’re accessing sensitive data.
Review Connected Apps
If you’re using any cloud-based services, chances are you’ve given some apps and services permission to access your data. It’s important to periodically review the apps that have access to your personal data to ensure you still want to give them access. If you see any apps, you no longer use or trust, revoke their access to your data.
Limit Admin Privileges
If you have a lot of people who need access to your data, it can be tempting just to give everyone admin privileges. However, to secure data storage, it’s best to limit admin privileges to only those who absolutely need them.
In this way, if an account is infiltrated, the damage it can cause will be mitigated. So, be intentional about who you give admin privileges to and only give them to people who really need them.
Encrypt Your Uploads
When you’re uploading data to a cloud storage service, encrypt it before it leaves your computer. That way, even if someone is able to intercept the data in transit, they won’t be able to read it. Many cloud security services offer the option to encrypt your data before it’s uploaded, so take advantage of that feature.
Install A Security Tool
Finally, one of the best ways for data protection is to install a security tool like a firewall or an anti-malware program. Use these tools to prevent attacks and safeguard sensitive information. Pick the security system that best fits your requirements among the many that are out there.
Some storage security tools protect against viruses and malware, while others focus on preventing identity theft. Others, however, provide a combination of these capabilities.
No matter what type of security tool you choose, the most important thing is to ensure that it is always up to date. By keeping your security tool up to date, you can help ensure that your data remains safe from the latest threats.
Final Words
No company, no matter how big or little, can afford to skimp on cloud data storage security. It is always necessary to take precautions against stored data breaches, even if you don’t keep particularly sensitive information.
Sometimes, even simple measures like using strong passwords and encrypting your data can make a big difference. Always keep in mind that preventative measures are crucial in the realm of data protection.
By being aware of the threats and taking steps to prevent them, you can help ensure that your data remains safe and secure.