By Harry Pontiff

Virtually everyone in today’s world depends on ready access to a computer. Without one we are lost but particularly so if that computer is a laptop and contains sensitive information such as credit card or social security numbers, bank account information, etc. Here are some quick tips to help mitigate and possibly recover a lost or stolen laptop: Very important: • Backup all critical information. (See: www.macalester.edu/its > Safe Computing > Backup) • Register the model & serial number of all devices in My Inventory at Macalester in Google Docs. • Use a strong password to access your laptop. Learn how at: www.macalester.edu/its/safecomputing Optional • Consider installing Laptop Tracking Software by Prey (http://www.preyproject.com): It’s free, easy to use, and effective in locating your laptop. • If sensitive data of any kind is stored on the device, consider encryption. For assistance with any of the above (e.g. encryption) contact the ITS Help Desk at [email protected] or 651-696-6525. These tips have been offered as part of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, an event coordinated by the National Cyber Security Alliance, a non-profit public-private partnership focused on cyber security awareness and education for all digital citizens. refresh –>