The true cost of a stolen computer - UPDATE20 May 2005
How much would the theft of a computer cost your business? It's probably a lot more than you think. According to a recent survey by the Computer Security Institute, the average cost to a company as a result of a computer being stolen is over £50,000.
While there is the obvious cost of the stolen hardware - there is the far more damaging cost of lost data. While soaring crime figures suggest many companies don't give priority to protection of their data, these effective security measures will cost you next to nothing to implement:
Encrypt your sensitive data
If you have sensitive information on your computer, consider encrypting it. If you have Windows XP, you already have the functionality to do this. Even if your laptop is stolen, the thief will be unable to access your data. Find out how to encrypt your data with Windows XP.
Back up regularly
Make sure you back up your data regularly. This way you will always have a copy of your most important documents. Find out how to back up your data with BT's Datasure.
Trace your laptop's location
Engrave your name on your computer. This makes it more difficult for a thief to 'fence' - and it aids recovery. You can also buy software that reports your laptop's location once it's connected to the Internet. Visit www.stolenlaptop.com to find out how you can locate and retrieve your stolen laptop.
Set a start-up password
Protect your laptop with a system password. This password has to be entered before Windows begins loading, so your data can't be seen by third parties.
You can set up your system password as follows:
- Press Delete and Esc or F1 as soon as you turn on your system
- You will be presented with your computer's setup menu
- Select the 'security' or 'password' option
- Enter your chosen password and press 'save and exit'
- Make sure you remember your password!
If in any doubt, check your computer manufacturer's website or laptop instruction manual.
Mac security
Mac users can use the Macintosh FileVault security system, which keeps your valuable documents safe with powerful AES-128 encryption. Find out more here.
