10 Ways to Protect your Laptop
During the holiday season, more people will be working away from the office or on the road. But beware; by taking that laptop with you, you have become a target for theft. If your laptop gets in the wrong hands, your company information is at risk, as well as any personal and financial information stored on the laptop.
Keep these 9 tips in mind when you are travelling with your laptop.
1.Avoid using computer bags. This only brings to attention that you are indeed carrying a laptop. Try disguising it a little by carrying it in a padded briefcase.
2.Practice Computer Security. For instance, never leave access numbers or passwords in your carrying case. This is like leaving your keys in the car and doors unlocked. If the thief doesnt have this information, he will have to work to get access, and may give up.
3.Carry your laptop with you at all times. Do not check it with your other luggage. Luggage gets lost every day; you dont want your laptop to be one of those. If travelling by car, it is best to lock it in the trunk.
4.Be aware of data security. An easy way to do this is encrypt your data. Encryption can give you another layer of protection, should your laptop be stolen. With most Windows programs, you can choose to encrypt files and folders. If someone were to get past the passwords and access your laptop, they cannot decrypt the files and see your information.
5.Keep your eye on your laptop. When going through security checkpoints, keep your eyes on the bag. Keep it with you until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. A lot of laptop cases look alike, and someone get confused and take yours in the shuffle.
6.Avoid setting your laptop on the floor. Setting your laptop on the floor is an easy way to lose it or forget it. If it needs to be set down, place it between your feet or against your leg. If it is touching you, you are aware of it.
7.Buy a laptop security device. If you need to leave your laptop in a room or at a desk, use a security cable to attach it to a heavy chair, desk, or table. This will make it much more difficult for someone to pick it up and walk off. There are also programs to track the laptop when it connects to the internet and reports the exact physical location.
8.Use a screen guard. These guards help prevent people from looking over your shoulder and spying on your work. This is very useful if you need to check your bank balance in the crowded airport lobby.
9.Try not to leave your laptop in your hotel room or with the front desk. Lots of things get lost in hotel rooms and they are not completely secure. If you must leave it, hang the do not disturb sign on the door. This may help to keep others out of the room.
10.Be careful with wireless networks. Do not attempt to connect to your banking website (or other confidential information sites) through a wireless connection, unless it is a secure site using https.
Have a safe trip, but be careful with your laptop. The hardware may be easily replaced, but the data could be priceless. If you plan to travel a lot this season, please give Kotori Technologies a call for a checkup at 843-553-8800 or visit our website at www.kotoritechnologies.com for more information.
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