Computer files, folders, and other data that you intend to keep private can be kept safe and inaccessible through the use of security software and other methods. If you want to protect secret information about business plans, personal photos, classified data, and other sensitive information, you have to make sure that these files are password-protected, encrypted or well hidden within your computer system. Here are 5 effective methods for information assurance:
How To Hide and Secure Your Data on Computer
Use File Encryption Software
Free encryption software like TrueCrypt and AxCrypt work like security magic. These pieces of open source software seal private files and folders inside their digital vaults and keep them secure from people who do not possess the secret password. These applications work like safety vaults that only you can open. Nevertheless, always keep the passwords inaccessible by unauthorized persons.
Also Check : Keeping Your Personal Computer Secure : 7 Security Questions You Need to Ask
Use Password Encryption Software
In addition to encrypting your files and folders, you can further secure secret information through the use of password encryption software like KeePass. The software seals passwords, serial numbers, account numbers, and login information to keep them away from hackers or people with malicious intent. The software can also be used to encrypt files, especially those associated with KeePass.
Also Check : HOW TO : Choose A Secure and Strong Password
Secure Files and Folders by Using Passwords or Hiding Them
There are so many Windows utilities you can use to secure your files and folders through hiding or password-protecting. Utilities like 7-Zip, My LockBox, Free Hide Folder, and fSekrit are very useful in information security. 7-Zip, for example, allows you to compress files into a zip file and create a password to keep its contents from being extracted without your consent. The fSecrit program works by changing any file into a password-protected .exe file. These utilities are a charm when it comes to file security. Without the correct password, other computer users cannot access the hidden data.
Also Check :
HOW TO : Lock Folder Without Any Software
HOW TO : Lock Your PC Automatically When You Are Away
Embed Cryptic Data through Steganogaphy
The technique of sending hidden data embedded in simple and unassuming email messages is a very effective way of securing information between two people. Steganography allows senders and recipients to send private information through the use of hidden “digital ink”. The obscured data cannot be viewed as part of the message and can only be read with the proper decoding tool. Steganography tools are highly valued by people who do not want third-parties accessing the secret information they are sending.
Obscuring Data through Windows Features
Windows has a feature that allows files to be hidden from plain view. You can do this by changing the file properties to hidden. However, the computer has to be configured not to show hidden files. This can be done by disabling the “Show hidden files” property in the control panel’s Folder Options. Another way of obscuring files is by burying them deep into subfolders in locations that are not usually visited by computer users. Hiding files in the My Documents folder, for example, is not a very good idea since it is usually accessed by users.
Information assurance is a very delicate task. However, it is required if you deem specific information as private and secret. For high level security information, make use of file encryption software and further protect it with encrypted passwords.
This post was contributed by ECA Security Limited - information assurance experts and specialists in data security. For more information on information assurance and related topics, you can visit the ECA Limited website www.ECALimited.co.uk