Create Backups of Your Information

The longer you use your computer or phone, the more information you probably store on it. The last thing you want is for that information, particularly important financial records, to be lost or stolen. Whether you experience a damaged hard drive, accidentally delete something or get hit by a cyberattack, losing your data is never a good thing. Below are some ways you can back up your information and be protected from unforeseen events.

External data storage options

The best way to ensure that all your data isn’t stored on one drive is to copy it onto another. Most computers come with software that will automatically back up your data to an external hard drive when it is connected. You can also use third-party software or manually copy the files that you want saved on another drive. Make sure to use a drive that is compatible with your computer, meets your needs and has enough storage space for all the information you wish to back up.

Another option for data storage is a USB flash drive, also known as a thumb drive, pen drive or memory stick. A flash drive is typically much smaller than an external hard drive, both physically and in the amount of memory it has, so it can be useful when you only need to back up a few important files.

Cloud storage

Another option for backing up data is to upload it to “the cloud,” also known as cloud storage, which uses remote servers to save data uploaded via an internet connection. Cloud providers will often spread your data to multiple virtual machines in data centers all across the world, helping to ensure that your data is available whenever you need it. Users can access their information from the cloud through software such as a web portal, browser or mobile app.

Cloud storage has several advantages. If you copy all your information to one external hard drive, and then lose it, it’s gone. With cloud storage, if one server goes down, you can rest assured that your backup is available on several other servers that are still online. Most cloud providers also have strong security measures in place, including physical security at the data centers where information is stored, to keep your information out of the wrong hands.

What to do if your information is compromised

If your data becomes lost, stolen or damaged, consider contacting those who might have a copy of their own. Many banks, for instance, are required to keep certain financial records on file for a predetermined amount of time. Should cybercriminals gain access to your bank account, credit card or social security number, immediately contact your financial institutional or the appropriate authorities to try and prevent identity theft or fraud.

You can also protect your information with myTrustmark^® online and mobile banking, which offers security features like eStatements, account alerts, 2-factor authentication, fingerprint and facial recognition technology and more to help protect your accounts. Click here to learn more about the benefits and security features of myTrustmark.