Best practice advice for data encryption:
- Lock Your Devices: Use passwords or PINs on your phone, tablet, and computer.
- Scramble Your Data: Turn on built-in encryption for your computer’s hard drive (like BitLocker for Windows or FileVault for Macs).
- Encrypt Sensitive Files: If you have very private files, save them in encrypted folders or use encrypted USB drives.
- Use Secure Websites: Always look for “HTTPS” and a padlock in the website address bar when online.
- Secure Your Wi-Fi: Make sure your home or business Wi-Fi is password-protected and uses WPA2 or WPA3 security.
- Protect Cloud Data: Check if your cloud storage (like Dropbox, Google Drive) encrypts your files.
- Choose Strong Passwords: Use long, unique passwords or passphrases for everything, and consider a password manager.
- Turn On 2-Step Verification: Use two-factor authentication (like a code sent to your phone) for important accounts (email, banking).
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, apps, and antivirus software.
- Be Smart About Sharing: Only send sensitive information through secure, encrypted methods, not regular email.
