Online storage: Things to know

BERLIN: Online data stores are becoming increasingly popular, as they allow users to store documents, images, or videos on internet servers and access this information from any computer connected to the web.
But the files saved on the providers' servers are not always secure. This is why experts recommend that users encrypt sensitive data before transferring them to an online store.'While some providers offer encryption functions, it's safer to do this yourself,' says Sebastian Feld from Germany's Institute for Internet Security.
There are various free encryption tools on the market, such as TrueCrypt or Advanced File Security 3 Basic.
They safeguard sensitive data by ensuring that data can only be viewed after entering the correct password. This helps to protect information from external attacks and also prevents providers from spying on their users.
Even legitimate companies may be interested in the data they are storing. 'Make sure to carefully check the terms and conditions of the provider before drawing on this service,' says Feld. Among other information, the terms and conditions list the privacy policy and specify regulations concerning files protected by copyright.
Data transfer between local computers and the online store represents another security risk, which is why such transfers should always take place in encrypted form. When accessing the online store directly via a browser, secure connections are easily identified by looking for 'https' in the web address.