Why Safeguarding Your Backups Is Just as Important as Backing Up Your Data

Why Safeguarding Your Backups Is Just as Important as Backing Up Your Data

Every business owner knows the importance of backing up their data. You've likely heard horror stories about companies losing everything due to unexpected disasters, malicious attacks, or human error. But here's the thing many people don't think about: backups themselves need protection.

Whatever jeopardizes your primary data – malware, theft, or natural disasters – can also take out your backup.

In this article, we'll explain why safeguarding your backups is just as important as creating them and how a smart strategy can keep your business secure.

Malware Can Target Your Backups

Malware doesn't just stop at your primary files. Many ransomware attacks actively hunt for backups connected to your network. If your backup is easily accessible, either on a shared network drive or connected directly to a machine, it's at risk of being encrypted along with everything else.

This is why relying on a network-accessible backup alone isn't enough. A single breach could compromise your working files and the backup you thought would save the day.

Theft: Backups Can Be Stolen Too

A break-in doesn't just put your computers at risk; it also puts your backups in danger. While thieves may primarily target laptops or desktops, they often grab whatever they can carry. A portable backup drive sitting on a desk or in an unlocked cabinet could quickly end up in the wrong hands.

Think about it: if someone steals your backup, they might not even realize its importance immediately. But once they do, your sensitive business data could be exposed.

Employee Access: The Double-Edged Sword

Who has access to your backups? It's a question many business owners overlook. Good and bad employees can unintentionally or deliberately jeopardize your data.

  1. Accidental access. A well-meaning employee could open a phishing email or download a malicious file, inadvertently granting attackers access to your backup.
  2. Malicious intent. A disgruntled employee could deliberately delete or corrupt your backup data out of spite.

Limiting who can access your backups, both physically and digitally, is essential to keeping them safe.

Natural Disasters: When Backups Go Down with the Ship

Wild weather and natural disasters are becoming more common. Floods, fires, and storms can cause devastating damage, even in areas that don't usually experience extreme weather. If your backup is stored in the same location as your primary data, it's just as vulnerable.

Picture this: a fire breaks out in your office. Your desktop and your external backup drive, sitting conveniently on the same desk, are both destroyed. Without an off-site or cloud-based backup, you're left with nothing.

The 3-2-1 Backup Rule: A Smarter Approach

To truly protect your data, we recommend following the 3-2-1 backup strategy:

  1. 3 copies of your data. One primary and two backups.
  2. 2 different types of storage. For example, an external hard drive and a cloud backup.
  3. 1 copy off-site. To safeguard against theft, disasters, or other physical threats.

This approach keeps your data safe by diversifying where and how it's stored. However, even the best backup strategy must be paired with limited access permissions. Controlled access is key, whether it's preventing a trusted employee from accidentally introducing malware or stopping a rogue individual from tampering with your data.

How We Can Help

Protecting backups can feel overwhelming, but that's where we come in. As your managed service provider, we'll:

  1. Implement a robust 3-2-1 backup system tailored to your business.
  2. Limit network and physical access to backups to minimize risks.
  3. Monitor your systems to spot threats before they become disasters.
  4. Provide ongoing support and recommendations to keep your data secure.

Backing up your data is essential, but it's only the first step. Protecting your backups is what truly safeguards your business from loss. Reach out to us today, and let's make sure your backup strategy is as solid as your data deserves.

Jim's IT Services in Australia

  • Julian Rallings Was very helpful highly recommended him

    Michelle Warner Avatar Michelle Warner
    02/09/2023

    Had a problem with my PC a was stressing out so hard, lucky that i went onto Jims I.T an got a phone call about 40 mins later, really quick response also Sean the guy that helped me was an absolute legend such a nice friendly guy an was at a fair price an sorted everything i needed thank u again 🙂

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    02/12/2023

    Polite team and reasonably priced

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    02/05/2023
  • I had a problem that my old computer consultant could not fix. Tony from Jim's IT had my computer going in 10 minutes. Great expertise and service!!

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    29/09/2023

    Laith was super helpful and responsive, im super happy with their advice and support.

    Anika Squire Avatar Anika Squire
    02/05/2022

    Our journey with Jim's IT for our business fit out was nothing short of exceptional. From the very start, their team demonstrated a profound understanding of our needs, crafting a tailored solution that perfectly aligned with our brand identity and operational requirements. Their attention to detail, coupled with open communication throughout the project, ensured a stress-free experience. What truly set Jim's IT apart was their commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. Every aspect of our office redesign, from the sleek workstations to the integration of state-of-the-art technology, was executed with precision and care. The result? A workspace that not only looks impressive but also fosters productivity and collaboration among our team. Without hesitation, I would highly recommend Jim's IT to any business seeking a partner who delivers on both expertise and creativity.

    Eray Kurul Avatar Eray Kurul
    01/05/2024
  • Dealing with Brad was easy and smooth sailing. Told him what I need and he made it happen.

    Fatih Avatar Fatih
    29/04/2024

    Nishit at Darwin Jim’s IT was really great. Not only did he and another gent returned my call within half an hour, they were both at my door within 30 minutes to help with my computer issue. They were thorough and really helpful with awesome customer service after their visit. Would highly recommend. Thank you so much.

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    02/05/2023

    Great help and fast service. Friendly staff. They were really quick to fix my IT problems the same day. Extremely impressive.

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    29/03/2023

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