One of the biggest problems I’ve seen often are computer users storing files on different media regularly, but not storing the media safely.
When backing up files regularly it’s important to keep them in a safe place away from the computer’s area. Some of the biggest problems involving data loss are in the same vicinity, and usually within reach from the keyboard.
- Cats – hair, claws, and tongue. Cats seem to love typing for their owners, which is a good reason to keep your data away from them.
- Ashtrays – smoke, ashes, they’re all killers of the surface the data is written directly on or through.
- Beverages – see Ashtrays.
- Spouses and other mates – well intentioned hugs from behind can impact with beverages and ashtrays, or possibly peeve off jealous cats as well turning over the two latter.
Keep recordable media in their existing cases, whether sleeves, jewel cases, or USB stick caps left on. Use the box these were purchased in, or consider buying a cheap ‘Plasticmaid’ type container that’s small enough for them to be filed standing upright, rather than having the weight of others develop over time.
