Vacationing Tips
Vacations are a great time to explore new places, try new things and generally recharge your batteries. In this last part of Summer, I want to give you some tips if you consider taking your computer with you. The first and most vital tip is “DON’T.” We have become addicted to the electric appliance, but if there is any way to avoid taking it on the road, find it. You will be much more refreshed when you return.
However, not everyone can break the addiction. I want to pass along some suggestion if you must take along your inanimate friend. The first and most obvious is to have up-to-date firewalls, anti-virus and spyware protection. This should also be done at home at least once a week. On vacation you will most likely be seeking free or low cost internet access. These network hotspots have little or no security and might be a point of presence for computer hackers.
Make sure you have backed up your files. Place the back up in a safe, secure location at or near your home. In case of computer loss, damage, or sabotage, you will be able to recover your precious data. You will also want to remove critical personal files from your computer and any USB drives making the trip. Should you work for a company and have detailed customer information, eliminate it before your trip.
You should password protect your equipment. This will slow or stop a thief from accessing your files. Although it may seem obvious, please don’t put your equipment in a checked bag. Your checked bag will go through x-ray machines, be tossed around and handled by people who look for treasures. The risk of damage or theft increases whenever you are not in possession of your equipment.
In a separate place, keep a list of online sites to which you are registered. Should your computer be lost or stolen, call these organizations and cancel the accounts. Otherwise, the bad guy can simply log on to your machine and click into your accounts. Many online merchants keep you credit card on file for convenience, but a thief considers this point and click profit.
Enjoy the Summer, take up a new hobby, get a tan and by all means get away from the real ball and chain (your computer).
However, not everyone can break the addiction. I want to pass along some suggestion if you must take along your inanimate friend. The first and most obvious is to have up-to-date firewalls, anti-virus and spyware protection. This should also be done at home at least once a week. On vacation you will most likely be seeking free or low cost internet access. These network hotspots have little or no security and might be a point of presence for computer hackers.
Make sure you have backed up your files. Place the back up in a safe, secure location at or near your home. In case of computer loss, damage, or sabotage, you will be able to recover your precious data. You will also want to remove critical personal files from your computer and any USB drives making the trip. Should you work for a company and have detailed customer information, eliminate it before your trip.
You should password protect your equipment. This will slow or stop a thief from accessing your files. Although it may seem obvious, please don’t put your equipment in a checked bag. Your checked bag will go through x-ray machines, be tossed around and handled by people who look for treasures. The risk of damage or theft increases whenever you are not in possession of your equipment.
In a separate place, keep a list of online sites to which you are registered. Should your computer be lost or stolen, call these organizations and cancel the accounts. Otherwise, the bad guy can simply log on to your machine and click into your accounts. Many online merchants keep you credit card on file for convenience, but a thief considers this point and click profit.
Enjoy the Summer, take up a new hobby, get a tan and by all means get away from the real ball and chain (your computer).
posted by skgroner | 8:24 AM
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