World Backup Day highlights the importance of protecting digital data

• The Better Business Bureau is urging consumers to back up their digital data ahead of World Backup Day on March 31.
• Experts recommend the 3-2-1 rule: keep three copies of your data on two different media types, with one copy stored offsite.
• Storage options include external hard drives and cloud services, which should be researched before use.

As World Backup Day approaches on March 31, the Better Business Bureau is urging consumers to examine their digital habits and take proactive steps to prevent devastating data loss.

With smartphones functioning as portable microcomputers and many Americans relying on their devices for banking, communication and storing memories, the BBB warns that failing to back up important data can result in permanent loss during critical moments.

Consumers frequently overlook backup routines until a device crashes or malfunctions. The BBB points to common scenarios, such as missing a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity when a phone unexpectedly powers off, or losing a crucial email due to a laptop failure, to illustrate how sudden data loss can occur without warning.

According to the National Cybersecurity Alliance, 93% of people believe improving their own cybersecurity practices can protect loved ones, yet many still skip backup steps due to inconvenience or misconceptions about cost.

The 3-2-1 backup rule

The BBB recommends adopting the industry-standard 3-2-1 backup rule to ensure data protection:

• Three copies of your data: one primary version and two backups.

• Two different types of storage media, such as an external hard drive and cloud storage.

• One copy stored offsite, protecting against disasters such as fire, theft or physical device damage.

Update and secure your devices

Software updates help prevent crashes, data corruption and vulnerability to viruses or hackers. The BBB emphasizes updating devices directly through trusted software sources, noting that unsolicited texts or emails promoting system updates could be phishing attempts.

Automate backups and expand beyond computers

The organization encourages consumers to schedule weekly backup reminders or enable automatic backups across all internet-connected devices. This includes smartwatches, streaming equipment and other smart home technology that may store personal data.

Choose the right storage options

The BBB suggests using external devices, such as USB drives or external hard drives, or reputable cloud storage services to protect irreplaceable files. Cloud services vary in price and storage capacity, and the BBB recommends researching providers on BBB.org before committing to one. Some offer free options, while others charge for additional storage.

A timely reminder for digital life

World Backup Day serves as a reminder that technological failures often strike at inconvenient moments. Before snapping another photo, opening an important message, or sending a time-sensitive email, the BBB encourages consumers to establish a dependable backup routine to avoid losing valuable information during a critical time.

Jan Diaz is the President/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties.Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit BBB.org.