Backup, backup, backup ...

Everyone should adopt strategies to ensure critical information is protected from corruption and loss. 

• Invest in redundant backup systems
• Establish a structured backup procedure to make copies of all critical data files, using software compatible with the operating system and applications
• Periodically test the backups to verify that data, especially databases and other critical files, are being backed up properly
• Keep at least one verified copy of critical data offsite.
• Never upgrade any system without a verified backup
• Use up-to-date hardware and software utilities for data security, such as firewalls and virus protection
• Scan all incoming data for viruses, including packaged software
• Use ventilation, fans and/or air conditioning to keep servers at the proper operating temperature
• Connect systems to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect against power surges
• Power down and take extreme caution when moving computers
• Avoid static discharge when touching or handling the media, especially in excessively dry environments

When disaster strikes:

• If possible, back up the data immediately
• Do not use utility software if the drive makes scraping, tapping, clicking or humming sounds
• Do not power up a device that has obvious physical damage or is making unusual sounds
• Shut down the computer to avoid further damage to the drive and its data
• Do not attempt recovery yourself on severely traumatized drives (i.e., turning the computer off and on, using over-the-counter diagnostic tools). This may cause further damage or permanent data loss
• Call TEK911 to evaluate and help you decide on a course of action.
• If you’ve lost critical data, DriveSavers recovery service is your best and safest option
• Never assume data is unrecoverable
• DriveSavers has successfully recovered data from hundreds of thousands of drives with extreme physical and logical damage.