Data loss is one of the most significant risks in this digital age. It is seemingly inevitable, but you can prevent data loss if you put proper precautions and safeguards in place. If you want to minimize the opportunities of data loss, you must make yourself knowledgeable about its leading causes first.
Here are some of the leading causes of data loss and what you can do to encourage data protection.
1. Theft
User device theft is quite common, especially if the device is expensive. While losing a device is inevitable, you can prevent data loss by implementing a data backup plan. When you sync your devices to your cloud storage, which is dependent on your subscription to your chosen cloud service, you will have an extra data backup.
2. Power Failure
If your storage medium is not connected to any power source, it may fail due to power failure. You can prevent data loss from power failure by keeping an external storage device connected to an external power source.
3. Damage from Liquid Spillage
Some electronic devices are susceptible to damage from liquid spillage and can cause data loss. For example, hard disk drives and solid-state drives (SSDs) are susceptible to such damage. You can prevent liquid spillage damage by installing them in a waterproof receptacle.
4. User Error
User error is a common reason for data loss, and it is usually the user’s fault. You can minimize the risk of data loss due to user error by training your employees and your family members on how to handle electronic devices, especially if they are in storage.
5. Hard Drive Failure
Hard drives typically fail due to physical damage, damage to moving parts, power failure, corruption of the file system, or due to the presence of bad sectors. You can prevent damage to your hard drive by using a good-quality external hard drive enclosure to store your data. You can also prevent damage by using a hard drive cooler.
6. Corruption of the File System
Corruption of the file system is another common reason for data loss, and it refers to the systematic failure of the file system to store and retrieve your files as it should. You can prevent file system corruption by maintaining the built-in operating system software. Also, back up your files regularly.
7. Computer Viruses
Computer viruses are malicious programs that can infect your device and cause data loss. It is usually transmitted through an email attachment or a USB flash drive. You can prevent these computer viruses by installing anti-virus software on your device.
8. Improper Migration
Migration is the process of moving data or systems to a different platform. If you plan to migrate your data, you should make sure that your new platform supports the migration. If not, it may lead to data loss.
9. Fire
Fire can be devastating. If a fire breaks out in your home or office, you can lose your valuable data in a split second, primarily if you use a hard drive. You can’t keep your data secure if you don’t invest in a fire-proof safe
Final Thoughts
Data loss is inevitable, especially if you don’t have a backup plan in place. But if you are a responsible user, you have to protect your data. You can keep your data safe by putting these tips into practice.
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