Data protection units

Data protection units

1. How to protect data from accidental destruction

   • Ensure back up copies are kept
   • Thoroughly test software
   • Train users

2. How to protect data from deliberate damage

   • Use a firewall to prevent hackers
   • Carefully select staff and when they leave so that they don't destoroy the data
   • Virus attack - install virus checking software

3. Firewall

   • Looks at the data coming in from the internet and decides whether it should be let in or not
   • This stops hackers

4. Viruses

   • Virus scanning/checking software checks system for viruses
   • Do not load illegal games/software/music
   • Should be used regularly
   • Do not open email file attachments unless you know who they are from

5. Protecting data from unauthorised access

   • Use usernames/ User - IDs and passwords
   • Use encryption when data is stored or transmitted
   • Users must remember to log off when away from the computer
   • Use physical methods to prevent access to computers or computer rooms
   • Keypads to gain access to rooms
   • biometric access to rooms and computers using fingerprinting and retinal scanning

6. Encryption

   • Scrambles data before sending or storing it.
   • Used when banking or credit card details are sent over the internet
   • If data is intercepted or stolen, it cannot be understood