Data backup isn’t something that we prioritize as much as it should be prioritized. It could be a lifesaver when something goes wrong. And in an age where cyber attack threats are on the rise, it’s now more important to consider backing up your data more frequently.
But how often do people back up data? Well, according to the research by ExpressVPN, not many do data backup as often as they should. As a matter of fact, only 37% of the respondents who took part in the research met the suggested backup frequency. However, that’s not the only interesting aspect that the research has shed light on. There’s a lot more!
How Often Do People Backup Their Data?
As uncovered by ExpressVPN, a shocking number of us leave this data vulnerable. The research reveals that a staggering 22% of people never back up their data at all. That’s like leaving your front door wide open!
Even those who back up occasionally might be doing so far too infrequently. Only 19% meet the recommended minimum frequency. This means the majority are just one accident or cyberattack away from permanent data loss.
These statistics paint a troubling picture. It also shows how little importance we put on data backup. Now, the question is, how often should you back up your data? According to data recovery specialists, the recommended minimum is at least once a week. But if you want to be on the safer side, do it every 24 hours.
Why Is It Important to Backup Your Data Daily?
The digital world can be a dangerous place. Malicious software like ransomware can lock down your files, demanding a ransom for their release. But with a recent backup, you can restore your data and avoid extortion.
Beyond cyberattacks, even everyday mishaps can wreak havoc. Hardware failures, software crashes, and lost devices can all lead to permanent data loss. However, a robust backup plan ensures you have a safe and sound copy of your data.
ExpressVPN’s survey found that a concerning 38% of people have lost important data due to a lack of backups. These losses can be both financially crippling and emotionally devastating.
So, Why Aren’t More People Prioritizing Data Backup?
ExpressVPN’s survey showed that many understand the importance of data backup. A decent 32% of survey respondents called it extremely important). But a surprising number of people still neglect it. So, what’s holding them back?
For some, it’s a knowledge gap. 9% simply don’t know how to back up their data. The good news is that backup solutions are often user-friendly!
Others haven’t yet made backing up a habit (6%), while some find the process too time-consuming (5%). Luckily, backups can be automated, setting your mind at ease.
A small percentage (3%) prefer to keep their data entirely offline. They fear a loss of control. There are secure offline backup options available as well!
Finally, cost and trust concerns play a role. Only 3% are deterred by cloud storage costs. And a small portion (2%) worry about cloud providers keeping their data safe. However, many affordable and reliable cloud backup solutions exist!
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About Security and Privacy Concerns for Cloud-based Data Backup Solutions
Backing up data in the cloud is very convenient. But security can be a sticking point. 77% of those surveyed expressed some level of concern about the safety of their backed-up information.
These concerns are valid. Data breaches and unauthorized access are potential risks. The good news is, reputable cloud backup services prioritize security. They utilize strong encryption to scramble your data, making it unreadable even if intercepted. Furthermore, you can often choose to encrypt your backups with your own private key. This adds an extra layer of protection.
The biggest security risk might be closer to home. That is: data loss due to user error. Accidental deletion or corrupted backups can happen. Employing a backup solution with version history ensures you can restore older versions of your files if needed.
Best Practices for Data Backups
Now that you understand the importance of backups and how they can safeguard your data, let’s explore your options!
There are two main approaches for Backing Up Your Data
The first is a local backup. You can store back your data on a physical device like an external storage drive. This offers control but can be vulnerable to physical damage or loss.
As for the second approach for data backup, it’s choosing a cloud solution. You can store your data on a remote server accessed via the internet. This is convenient and offers redundancy, but security can be a concern.
Things to Consider for Secure Data Backups
First of all, look for a solution that encrypts your data, making it unreadable even if intercepted. Some providers even allow you to add your own encryption key for ultimate control.
Next, consider automatic backups. By scheduling automatic backups, you avoid the risk of forgetting. Then, consider enabling MFA for any cloud storage. This will add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
For highly sensitive data, consider storing backups in both the cloud and on a physical device. This will offer maximum security and reliability.
Don’t Risk Your Data!
ExpressVPN’s research paints a clear picture: we undervalue the importance of data backup. A significant portion of us never back up data, leaving precious memories, financial records, and irreplaceable work vulnerable.
Data loss can be devastating, caused by anything from hardware failure to cyberattacks. Thankfully, data backup solutions are user-friendly and affordable. Whether you choose a local drive or a cloud-based service, prioritize regular backups to ensure your information is safe.
