Working for CPA firms for nearly a decade combined with handling and being trusted with sensitive data, has enabled me to understand the importance of not only keeping data confidential, but protecting it as well. Before I became a freelancer, I worked for a firm that goes above and beyond and is a leader in their industry. They not only kept up-to-date with the tax laws and legislation changes, they also were very knowledgeable of the technological changes that occur over time. I’ve learned how to use a plethora of tools from them that I can utilize not only for my personal life, but the remainder of my professional career.
I was introduced to a free software program called TrueCrypt. It was a free software program that allowed the end-user to encrypt their files in a hidden container. It was a great option because you could encrypt your data on a computer or install the program on a USB drive and create a hidden partition. Unfortunately, TrueCrypt discontinued this handy program and posted instructions on how to migrate your information from TrueCrypt onto Microsoft’s BitLocker service located here: http://truecrypt.sourceforge.net/
So what is an alternative? For a current list of various encryption tools, refer to this link: http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2015/02/five-best-file-encryption-tools-2/. Currently, I back my files up regularly to WD MyPassport Ultra and use the encrypted software that is already installed on the drive. I have a separate USB drive that I store in a lock box and swap them out on a regular basis.
As a freelancer, I conduct a lot of my business utilizing very similar processes and procedures that has been effective for my former employer. It’s the extra mile that makes you stand out and the extra caution that keeps you and your client’s data protected. This is an older, but very useful article about determining if you really need to encrypt data on your computer: http://lifehacker.com/5905374/do-i-really-need-to-encrypt-every-file-on-my-computer. I’d love to hear about what methods you use for encryption and keeping data secure. Comments welcomed!
Re-inventing 9-5. the "new" millennium. 