Increasing Laptop Security

Our second story leads us to a how-to guide for travelers. Most of us, including myself prior to this article, don’t realize that laptops and electronic devices can be seized without reason when we cross borders. Since these things usually contain a lot of personal information, how do we protect ourselves from spying eyes? CNet’s Declan McCullagh has a guide that addresses that question, recommending various security methods and the software required to achieve them.

Fortunately, you have some technological defenses against overly snoopy border agents. Keep reading for our easy-to-understand, Homeland-Security-inspired, color-coded News.com Guide to Customs-Proofing Your Laptop. (And no, we’re not responsible if you end up cooling your heels in some Burmese prison for using PGP; check local laws and use good judgment.)

Good judgment indeed. The article also covers exactly what I was thinking while I was reading it: does securing your laptop increase the chance that someone might look deeper? After all, nothing says “look inside” more than a password-protected file.

If you travel frequently and carry a lot of data, it’s a good read. It might give you an idea of how to deal with those sensitive files.

Source: CNet

Short URL: http://gadget.ca/mzr