Encrypt your data on your laptop, mobile devices and USB sticks!

Thanks to laptops and mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, we can access our data anytime, anywhere. But is that always safe and secure? Even if you don't keep your documents on your mobile device, it will still be full of sensitive information. Just think of all the user names and passwords you may have stored on it so you don't need to log in all the time. Your device has become the key to your (work) data.

Besides, a mobile device can easily be lost and it often gets stolen, no matter how much you try to keep an eye on it.

So, don't take any risks when it comes to sensitive work-related or personal data!

• Encrypt your devices: read the manual or ask for help if necessary.
• Secure your device with a (long) unique PIN code or, even better, with your fingerprint or facial recognition.
• If a USB stick or drive is not encrypted by default, make sure to encrypt the files you save. This can be done in any Microsoft Office programme or by wrapping them in a secure zip file.

Cartoon: Ruben L. Oppenheimer