Keep Your Portable Devices Secure With Data Encryption

Monica Morris • Mar 20, 2018

We all enjoy the convenience that comes with using portable storage devices. You can easily travel with devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones and USB drives. Accessing data stored in these gadgets is easy. For example, if you have a flash drive, you simply need to plug it into the nearest computer. Smartphones and laptops enable you to access essential data from remote locations. But this convenience comes at a price, what if the device falls into the wrong hands through loss or theft? Would you be comfortable with a third party accessing your business data and the consequences of such disclosure?

Modern economies and businesses are data-driven. Some critical information about your organization may be mishandled if a portable device associated with your organization finds its way to your competitors. One way to save your business information from being accessed by unauthorized users is to encrypt all your data. With a properly encrypted storage device, data will become useless and unable to be read by third parties. Data that is tried to be viewed will be seen as garbled text.

Nowadays, USB flash drive storage capacity has grown and some can store Terabytes of data. You can easily lose your flash drive because of its small size. Anyone who finds or steals your flash drive can easily access your private and sensitive information by simply plugging into a laptop or computer with a USB port if it contains unencrypted data.

A more common device is the smartphone. Though it is primarily used to store personal data such as photos and messages, smartphones are now widely used for storing business data because it facilitates easy connection to workplace computers from any location. It is also easy to lose because we take our phones wherever we go. Thankfully, most smartphones come with full-disk encryption. Devices using iOS 8 and Android OS have encryption technology built in which can be activated for data security.

Here are a few general methods of encrypting your business data on various operating systems:

Using Windows 7,8 and 10 BitLocker

If you are using Windows operating system, this is one of the easiest ways to encrypt your sensitive data. The method first scans through the storage device and encrypts all the data using a password feature. It can also add an auto-unlock security feature which improves the convenience of accessing the storage device when using a computer. Data that has been encrypted by BitLocker can be decrypted by all versions of Windows 7, 8 and 10. Organizations that depend on Windows OS should consider trying out this method.

Mac 256-bit AES Encryption

MAC users can encrypt their portable storage devices using this encryption method. The 256-bit AES encryption can be used on the latest versions starting from Mac 10.5. Those with older versions of the operating system can use the 128-bit encryption. The resultant encrypted file should be added to the Finder to enable auto-expansion of the file with new data.

Third Party Encryption Software

There are lots of software that can encrypt data on a portable device. Here are some of them:

  • TrueCrypt:  This is an open source software that is compatible with all the major computer operating systems. You can use it on Windows, Linux and Mac OS. The software can encrypt partitions of a disk. You can also use it to create secure disk images that will act as the real disk.
  • GNU Privacy Guard: This encryption software is also compatible with Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Linux, and NetBSD.
  • WinRAR and 7-ZIP:  These are ideal for individuals and organizations that are looking for low-cost methods of securing their data.

Self-Encrypting Hardware

Software encryption methods have some weaknesses, and that’s why hardware security encryption methods were developed. One such solution is known as LOK-IT Secure Flash Drive. As the name suggests, it locks a flash drive using a password. Once you insert your flash drive into the computer, it will request a password.

Other hardware encryption solutions include Aegis PadLock and StarTech encryption. Hardware self-encryption solutions tend to be more expensive than the software solutions.

You can’t afford to ignore the security of your business data. Encrypt your files and portable devices and you will save yourself from worry should your device with sensitive data get lost. The methods listed in this article can help you to secure data on your device. We highly recommend doing some research before purchasing encryption software or hardware from vendors. For a business-wide deployment, consulting security experts will be a better solution. For questions about adding encryption software to your company’s portable devices, please  click here and one of our team members will be in touch.

 

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Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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