This happens without warning. Suddenly, access to your personal data is interrupted by a simple hardware failure, a dirty virus, a cyber attack, a software mess, accidental deletion or a human mistake. It is more clear than ever that our personal data is insecure.
Editor as a lawyer for privacy and security and behind the popular cybergui report, which you can subscribe for free Cyberguy.com/newsletterI have always emphasized the importance of personal responsibility when it comes to data security.
My top recommendation to protect the mountains of your precious memories, important documents and personal data is straight: Use a personal drive for backup.
A woman working on her laptop. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Choosing the right backup tool
Spring is traditionally cleaning time, and it should also expand even digital hygiene. Every year, I completely clean my personal data, which makes it sure to backup documents, family photos and other irreparable items. There is nothing like peace of mind that comes from a physical backup, which keeps control in your hands firmly, whether you use Mac, PC or even a chrombook.
A man is working on his laptop. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Recommended backup solution
One of my favorite devices for this task WD portable driveWhich provides 2 terabytes of storage. It easily connects to your device through SuperSpeed UsB 3.0, ensures quick and efficient data transfer, and is fully compatible with Chromebook. In this way a reliable drive should be one; I use another similar WD model for my MacBook and PC.
Image of a portable drive. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Best desktop computer for 2025
Backup, unplug then store your portable drive to a safe place
In addition to a regular running backup on a cloud or any other drive, I use this WD drive that plugs into your MAC, PC or Chromebook, which is an additional copy of my vital data that can be disconnected and kept in a safe place away from hackers and other hazards.
A man is working on his laptop. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
10 tips to speed up your PC performance
What to do backup: a digital checklist
While deciding what to do with your computer, it is important to prioritize documents, files and memories that are important and irreparable. Here is a comprehensive list to consider:
1. Individual documents: Include items such as birth certificate, passport, social security card, marriage certificate, wils and other legal documents that may be difficult or time -taking to replace.
2. financial records: This category should cover bank statements, tax returns, investment records and other financial documents which are required for personal records and legal compliance.
3. Photos and videos: Special programs such as family photos, holiday videos, weddings or graduates and other personal memories that cannot be made again.
4. Work and educational documents: If you use your computer for work or school, you support important projects, research papers, presentations and related correspondence.
5. Email: Some emails may have significant information, agreement or attachment that you may need to refer back to. Consider taking backup of important emails or storing them.
6. Contact: Backup of your digital address book can save you a lot of trouble in losing access to your equipment.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
7. Music and Media Collection: For those who digitally collect music, movies and books, support these files, ensure that you do not lose your collection.
8. Software and app data: Settings and data back up for apps you use often, especially if they help manage your schedule, finance or health.
9. Website bookmark: If you rely on the bookmark to navigate the Internet efficiently, backuping them can save time if you need to restore or switch to a new device.
10. Saves the game and profiles: If you are a gamer, supports your game sews and can prevent the loss of progress in terms of profile system failure.
11. Creative work: Include writing, artwork, design files, coding projects or any other personal or professional creative work.
A woman was looking at her phone while working on her laptop. (Kurt “Cybergui” Notson)
Some additional steps to consider to keep your data safe
Adopt 3-2-1 backup strategy: Make sure you maintain three copies of your data: original, in a backup on a separate device and a third copy in offsome or cloud. This approach provides strong protection against data loss.
Apply two-factor authentication (2fa): Increase account safety by enabling 2fa, Only additional verification stages are required beyond password, reducing unauthorized access risk.
Regular updates and patch systems: Keep your operating system and software Up to date To address weaknesses that cyber threats may be exploited.
Use strong antivirus software: Install a reliable antivirus software solution for guards against ransomware, viruses and malicious attacks that can compromise your files. Get my pics for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices,
Get Fox Business when you click here
Update your password for better security: One of the most important stages in protecting your data is to update your password regularly to prevent unauthorized access. Here is how to do it effectively:
- Use password manager – Instead of relying on memory, use a reliable Password manager Precomes a complex password generated and stored.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2fa, -Add an additional layer of safety by the need of a secondary verification method, such as SMS or one bar code through an authentic app.
- Create unique password – Avoid reusing the password in many accounts. Each password should be at least 12 characters long and includes a mixture of uppercase, lowercase, number and symbols.
- Check for compromised password – Use services with password breech detection, Some services IA data breech scanner NCLude that checks if your stored passwords are leaked and suggest updates.
- Change default router and device password If you are still using default login credentials for your Wi-Fi router, smart home device or online accounts, then update them immediately to prevent security risks.
Find out more about me Best expert-reviewed password manager of 2025 here.
By updating the passwords along with other spring-clining safety measures, you reduce the risk of cyber threats and reduce unauthorized access to your sensitive data.
Security Key: What is they and what you should use one?
Kurt’s major takeaways
Taking a few minutes to protect your data and equipment today can cause you disappointment, heartache and financial loss tomorrow. Regular backup and reliable antivirus software work in hand to mold their digital life. When finished, unplug your backup drive and store it to a safe place – this is a small step that makes a big difference.
What is your ‘data disaster’ story, and what lesson did you learn about digital backup? Write us and tell us Cyberguy.com/Contact
Click here to get Fox News app
For my tech tips and security alert, subscribe to my free cybergui report newsletter Cyberguy.com/newsletter
Ask Kurt a question or tell us which stories you want to cover us.
alert: Malware steals bank cards and passwords from millions of equipment.
Follow Kurt on your social channels:
Answers to the most asked cyber questions:
New from Kurt:
Copyright 2025 cyberguy.com. All rights reserved.
