With the proliferation of laptops in our lives, we thought it would be a good idea to give you some basics on keeping them secure. Some of us have opted for desktop replacements with 17" screens that are a bit difficult to cart around but portable nevertheless. Others have super lightweights that are easy to transport. Whatever your selection there are some basic precautions you should take. You know your basics by now of keeping your antimalware programs and patches up to date. However, after reading the above, perhaps there is a vulnerability you haven't taken into consideration - that's right - you. Apart from the cyber-world, you have to take some real world precautions as well. When it comes to laptops, you also need to protect your computer itself from malicious hands!

Some of this may sound like common sense, but truly, we need some of that every now and again don't you think? For example, don't leave your laptop all alone and unattended, should you get up to get a refill of your precious java. You are leaving your precious information exposed. Unbelievably a computer is stolen every minute and less than 3% are recovered.
  1. Install a laptop security cable to keep your computer physically secure at least for the moment. I would not go gallivanting and leave it in an unlocked room, but it is a workable temporary solution. About.com did a review of the top cables that you can see here. 
    http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/090715-Laptop-Security-Cables

  2. If you are familiar with LoJack for your car there is one available for your laptop as well. Computrace® LoJack® for Laptops by Absolute® Software is a software-based theft recovery service. It tracks, locates, and recovers stolen computers while providing you with the ability to protect your personal information from identity theft. 
    http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/090715-Lojack

  3. Whether you are at home or on the road, it is always a good idea to backup your data. There is no better feeling of security than knowing your info is safe and secure no matter what happens. 
    http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/090715-Mozy

  4. Passwords, Passwords, Passwords: You gotta love 'em but not too much. Change them regularly don't share with strangers and you should be okay. And remember to create a secure logon to your computer in order to use it. Don't just let anyone have access to your valuable documents. We strongly suggest you automate and secure the many passwords you use with RoboForm: 
    http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/090715-Roboform

  5. Be Watchful: Observe your surroundings. I don't mean to sound paranoid but there are serious thieves who specialize in stealing laptops. Watch for those watching you. You don't have to be weird about it, just stay alert.

  6. Not All Wi-Fi Is Created Equal: Look for legitimate hotspots and not fall prey to some nefarious doings. It is better to pay a fee and be safe than try to log in where you don't belong.

  7. Strip It Down: My traveling laptop only has my essentials. I don't have any financial data, the docs are backed up and I only travel with what I need. I like to think that this is just smart traveling. You don't take what you don't need.
That's about it. If you have any ideas about laptop security, let me know. 
http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/090715-Forum-Discussion

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