Your photos, your files, your documents – all wiped out by a crash or a cyberattack. It’s a nightmare scenario, but one that happens far too often. Whether it’s caused by a cybercrime or simple human error, data loss can have devastating consequences. That’s why June is recognized as Internet Safety Month. This yearly event is an important reminder to take action to protect your precious personal information from potential online threats.
From ransomware attacks that lock your files to malware that silently steals them, cyberthreats are constant and evolving. In 2024 alone, more than 3000 data breaches were reported, and 1.3 billion people were notified that their sensitive data may have been exposed. But these attacks aren’t the only danger. According to data from Kroll Ontrack, 67% of data loss is caused by hard drive crashes or system failures, 14% by human error, and 10% by software glitches. Even a simple spilled drink can lead to digital disaster.
Data you cannot afford to lose
Our devices are jam-packed with vital information, and it’s easy to forget how much of it isn’t stored anywhere else. Imagine losing any of the following and trying to replace them:
- Family photos and videos
- Financial records and tax documents
- Professional work and creative projects
- Medical records and personal documents such as mortgage paperwork, car titles, etc.
The personal toll of data losses can be overwhelming. According to a study by the Ponemon Institute, the biggest impact on victims of data breaches is emotional. 76% of those studied said they suffered stress from having their personal information exposed. 39% said they were forced to spend time resolving problems caused by the breach, and 25% found fraudulent charges on their credit cards. Other problems included financial loss and identity theft.
Best practices for boosting your digital defenses
In today’s interconnected world, your personal information is always at risk of being lost or stolen. But the good news is you can protect yourself by following a few tried-and-true best practices.
- Back-up your backups: You’ve heard it before, but backing up your data is the single most powerful way to protect yourself from data loss. Be sure to back up on multiple media types and in multiple locations. Carbonite solutions can do the hard work for you with automatic encrypted cloud backups and easy restoration of any lost or stolen files.
- Use a password manager: Writing your passwords on sticky notes or recycling passwords may make it easier to remember them, but it leaves you vulnerable to cybertheft. Webroot solutions include password managers that generate and store strong, unique passwords for every account and keep all your login credentials and payment information safe and organized.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication (TFA) adds an extra layer of security by adding a second step to the login process, such as a security code sent by text or email. Always turn on TFA when possible, especially for your email and financial accounts.
- Keep software updated: Remember to set your operating system, browser and apps to auto-update to take advantage of the latest security patches.
- Secure your Wi-Fi network: Remember that all your smart home devices, including security cameras, thermostats, and baby monitors, are connected to your Wi-Fi. Each of these devices presents an opportunity for hackers to break in, so don’t leave your network open – create a strong password for your router. Also, consider purchasing a VPN for your home and devices. It will secure your network and hide your IP address and personal data.
- Limit personal information online: Be sure your family is careful about sharing personal details online. Avoid posting full names, addresses, and birthdates publicly on social media.
- Review app permissions: Many apps collect more data than they need. Review and adjust app permissions on all your family’s devices on a regular basis.
- Use antivirus protection: Carbonite Plus and Carbonite Prime include Webroot antivirus protection. This award-winning security software safeguards you from the latest threats. It constantly monitors your credit, financial accounts, identity, scours the dark web, and sends alerts if any fraud is detected.
Whether it's caused by a cyberattack, a hardware failure, or an accident - losing your digital files can be a painful experience. But the good news is it’s preventable with a little preparation. So don’t wait for a scare to take your data security seriously. This Internet Safety Month, take steps to develop a solid digital defense strategy. Let Carbonite give you the protection you need and help save you from the heartache of losing your irreplaceable data.
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Emotional Impacts of Cybercrime
