File storage and transferring hold a very dear place in most people’s lives.
However, the safety of files is really tough to maintain. In this guide, we are going to help you protect your files. We will explore ways to store and send files securely.
What is secure file storage?
Secure file storage protects your files. It prevents others from accessing your files or altering them in any way. Good storage grants protection to your files using locks. You alone can unlock such files.
Types of secure storage
Files can be stored securely in various ways, as listed below.
- Cloud
- External hard drives
- Encrypted USB drives
Cloud storage saves files on the internet. External drives save files on a device you can hold. Encrypted drives use special codes to lock files.
Why is secure file storage important?
Secure storage keeps your information private. It stops thieves from stealing your data. It also helps you follow laws about data protection.
Risks of unsecured storage
Unsecured files can lead to huge troubles, including but not limited to the following:
- Identity theft
- Financial loss
- Privacy breaches
These risks give a reason why secure storage is important. You need to protect your personal and work files.
How can I make my file storage safer?
You can do so many things to make your storage safer, such as:
- Using strong passwords
- Enabling MFA
- Encrypting your files
- Keeping your software up to date frequently
Strong passwords are hard to guess. Two-factor authentication adds an extra step to log in. Encryption scrambles your files so others can’t read them. Updates fix security problems in your software.
Best practices for passwords
Good passwords are important in keeping your files safer. Here are some tips:
- Use long passwords
- Mix letters, numbers, and symbols
- Don’t use personal info in passwords
- Use different passwords for each account
What is secure file transfer?
Secure file transfer is a way of sending files safely between individuals or devices. It prevents unauthorized access to files and prohibits modification of files in transit. The better methods of transfer protect the files with encryption.
Common secure transfer methods
Here are several ways to securely transfer files:
- Secure FTP (SFTP)
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
- Encrypted email attachments
- Secure file-sharing services
How to transfer files safely?
These steps will keep your files safer while in transit:
- Select a secure method of transfer
- Encrypt the file before you send it
- Give strong passwords for file access
- Authenticate the recipient
- Send the access details separately
How to email attachments safely
- Encrypt important attachments
- Use a secure email service
- Avoid writing sensitive information in the body of an email
- Double-check the recipient’s email address
Ready to secure your files?
Protect your data from thieves and snoopers. Use strong passwords, encryption, and safe methods of transfer.
Feel free to reach out today and let us walk you through setting up safe systems for your files to take the next step in protecting critical data.