Private notes, documents, photos, or files others to access without our permission. Whether it’s your journal, financial records, confidential work documents, or personal photos, keeping them secure and private is important.
Use strong passwords
The first line of defines for your private data is a strong password. Avoid obvious or easy-to-guess passwords like your name, birthdate, or common words. Instead, use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. The longer the password, the harder it will be to crack. Consider using a password manager to generate and store unique, complex passwords. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible as an extra layer of security check more information privatenote.io.
Store notes in a secure app
The keeping notes in an unprotected app like a basic notepad use a secure note-taking app instead. Look for apps that allow you to password-protect notes, encrypt data, and back up files securely. Popular secure note apps include Evernote, OneNote, Standard Notes, and Joplin.
Enable device security features
Take advantage of built-in security features on your devices. On smartphones, enable fingerprint or facial recognition rather than just swipe access. On laptops, make sure to use strong passwords and enable firewall and antivirus software. Set devices to auto-lock after a period of inactivity. These measures will make it harder for others to access your device and notes.
Use encrypted storage
They are keeping sensitive files on your computer or in the cloud, store them in an encrypted format. This scrambles the data so only those with the right encryption key access it. Encrypted USB drives provide portable secure storage. VeraCrypt and Cryptomator are open-source tools that allow you to encrypt files and folders.
Be wary of public Wi-Fi
Avoid accessing private notes or accounts on public Wi-Fi networks. The open nature makes it easy for others to snoop on your activity and data only access sensitive information on password-protected private networks. Consider using a VPN app to encrypt your connection when on public networks.
Hide printed notes
Don’t leave printed private notes lying around, such as next to your computer. Keep them filed away securely in a locked drawer or cabinet at home or work. Shred unneeded printed notes instead of just tossing them in the recycling. Be mindful of keeping note papers out of sight when others are around.
Use secure cloud storage
If you store private notes and files in the cloud, use secure cloud storage services that encrypt data, allow strong password protection, and offer two-factor login. Compare providers like Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, Apple iCloud, Google Drive, and Sync on security features.
Limit note visibility
In note-taking apps, restrict note visibility so only you access the note. Evernote, OneNote, and others allow you to selectively share notes if needed but keep personal notes private. Disable read receipts and typing indicators in messaging apps to limit visibility.
Beware logins on shared devices
A shared or family computer poses a privacy risk for your notes and accounts. Avoid logging into apps, accounts, or websites with sensitive info on a shared device. Or use a separate guest account and securely log out afterward. Set up individual user accounts on family computers.
Back-up your data
Have backups of your important notes to avoid loss and unauthorized access. Back up mobile devices to your computer. Use cloud backup services like iCloud or Google Drive. Have multiple redundant copies of essential notes and documents in different secure locations in case one is compromised.