Keeping data secure
Measures that can be taken to keep Values, typically letters or numbers. secure include:
- making regular A copy of important files that is kept separately in case the original files are lost or damaged. of files (backup copies should be stored in fireproof safes or in another building)
- protecting yourself against A small program written to cause harm to a computer. by running Anti-virus software scans all forms of storage devices for viruses (programs harmful to computers) and, if found, attempts to remove them.The programs, applications and data in a computer system. Any parts of a computer system that aren't physical.
- using a system of passwords so that access to data is restricted
- safe storage of important files stored on Any storage medium that is easily removed from its enclosure, eg CDs or DVDs., eg locked away in a fireproof and waterproof safe
- allowing only authorised staff into certain computer areas, eg by controlling entry to these areas by means of ID cards or magnetic swipe cards
- always logging off or turning A point of access, eg to a computer system. off and if possible locking them
- avoiding accidental deletion of files by When a disk (for example) is write protected, no more data can be written to it, or existing data edited. disks
- using data Files that are encrypted have been altered using a secret code and are unreadable to unauthorised parties. techniques to code data so that it makes no apparent sense
Online banking
When you bank online, after you’ve logged in, you will notice that the Hypertext Transfer Protocol - a request/response standard. Web browsers send requests and websites or servers respond to requests. in the address bar has changed to https. This indicates that a secure connection between your computer and the bank's computer has been established. Data sent between the two computers is encrypted so that anyone trying to intercept your data will receive meaningless data. The data can only be decrypted into readable data by using a key that is known only to the two computers - yours and the bank's.