Preventing Data Loss With These 9 Best Practices for IT Professionals

One of the person’s worst fears is to lose all the files along with important programs they have on their computer. The fear is much more palpable when it comes to business owners and managers who have critical data stored on their computer networks.

When it comes to data loss prevention (DLP), everyone refuses to take a risk and immediately seeks help from an IT professional. Every IT professional will immediately suggest a DLP checklist that should be followed if someone wants to keep their data safe. In companies, computer networks usually contain highly sensitive and

confidential information. This information shall be protected at all costs as losing them would hurt the business’ operations largely.

It is truly necessary to prioritize preventing data loss especially in this era of remote work setup. Here are a few tips for DLP that IT professionals practice:

Install an antivirus software

The best way to protect your data from getting corrupted by malware is by setting up virus detection and protection programs. A computer virus can easily infiltrate your system and damage your files. A user or employee may accidentally install a virus which results in the data being compromised and even lost. Having an installed antivirus program not only protects your computer but also removes corrupt files and software in your computer.

Set up a firewall

Avoid losing crucial data to phishing sites and click baits. Accessing the internet can even let a hacker gain entry to your system. Set up a firewall for additional protection against the public internet. Monitor incoming and outgoing traffic and set up your own security rules to improve your computer’s protection. Don’t let your computer be prone to hackers and malicious sites.

Make use of the Cloud

Backup your files using the Cloud. The Cloud will store your data on remote servers that can only be accessed by you and other users you give authorization to. This gives the administrator the power to encrypt the files and store them securely on the internet. While the Cloud is indeed part of the internet’s vast ecosystem, it has strong cybersecurity measures that will prevent others from snooping. You can rely on the Cloud to store your files safely so that you don’t lose them.

Store data in external drives

Another backup system you can try is getting external drives to store your files in. Disk and hard drives are available in massive storage units and you can surely find one that fits your needs perfectly. If you are not comfortable stashing all your data in the Cloud, then this is good additional backup storage. Make sure to keep your external drives in dry, dust-free, waterproof, and secure containers.

Have a battery backup system

Power surges can sometimes damage drives and destroy your computer. Even if power surges are not common in your place, it would not hurt to invest in a generator to ensure that the files in your computer and drives right? Avoid losing data to power outages with the help of a battery backup system. Having an uninterrupted power supply also ensures that you have enough time to save your data during electrical storms.

Create a disaster recovery plan

Prepare for disasters. Your computer is not invincible and cannot protect itself from earthquakes, tornadoes, and floods. Make sure that all your employees are familiar with the disaster recovery plan in place. Everyone should know what to do in case of an emergency to prevent data loss. Delegate employees to oversee the plan and run drills from time to time to guarantee preparedness.

Protect hardware equipment

Clean your computers and other hardware data storage equipment to prevent dust from settling. The accumulation of dust can cause overheating which may fry its components. You also have to prevent workspaces and storage units from being humid. Humidity and constantly changing temperatures can cause rusting which damages hardware.

Restrict access

Only grant trusted users access to sensitive and confidential information. Restricting access to unauthorized personnel narrows down those who are allowed to view and manipulate the stored data. It can prevent information from being leaked and accidental file deletion. Do not give all of your employees complete access permission as this can cause disorganization. Disorganized files may also lead to data loss especially in complex networks.

Seek help from an IT professional

The best course of action to take is to approach an IT professional for advice. Even if many of these practices can be done on your own, they can be made stronger and more efficient by those who are more knowledgeable. They will be able to come up with a more secure DLP strategy and improve the DLP plan you already have in place. They have the skills to find some holes and areas for improvement in your system and will leave you wondering why you didn’t do so in the first place.

Strengthen your DLP plan and protect your device from being exposed to vulnerabilities that you aren’t aware of. Approach eSec Forte Technologies for your Vulnerability Management and IT Services needs. eSec Forte Technologies has been rated as one of the top service providers when it comes to securing your device and preventing any data from being lost. We have gained the trust of government organizations, Fortune 1000 Companies, and other organizations when it comes to DLP strategies.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Arleen Atienza has been writing for several organizations and individuals in the past six years. Her educational background in Psychology and professional experience in corporate enable her to approach a wide range of topics including finance, business, beauty, health and wellness, and law, to name a few.