Nowadays, transferring files online has become an essential part of our daily routine. Whether it’s work documents or personal photos, the practice is common.
To secure these files and prevent leaks, unauthorized access, or even cyberattacks, you must implement certain measures. Below, you will find a series of essential tips for transferring safely in the digital environment.
- Encrypted Transfer Services
To ensure security when transferring files, you should choose services that provide end-to-end encryption.
In this category, look for tools equipped with advanced encryption technologies. This way, they are able to safeguard information both when transmitting and when storing it.
At the same time, you should avoid using public or unknown services that do not ensure adequate protection. This will reduce the risks of unauthorized access.
- Password Protection
If you’re sharing sensitive documents, it’s a good idea to add an extra layer of protection by encrypting these files with a password.
Fortunately, there are free and paid programs that can set passwords for compressed files. This way, you can ensure that only authorized recipients can access the information.
- Use Secure Connections
Private files should never be uploaded through public Wi-Fi networks. These are highly susceptible to being victims of eavesdropping attacks. In case you’re forced to use them, we always recommend using a VPN.
It will encrypt your connection and ensure that your data is secure while being transferred. Also, do a quick search for “what is my IP” before starting an import transfer online to verify your current IP address and identify any unusual or suspicious changes in your connection.
- Don’t Share Links Publicly
Although many file transfer platforms allow you to share download links, if you make them public, you could increase the risk of access by unauthorized users.
Therefore, whenever possible, set permissions so that only specific users have access. At the same time, you can use links that are limited by time or number of downloads to minimize risks.
- Configure Link Expiration
Certain cloud storage services have options that allow you to set expiration dates on the links you share.
This way, after a certain period of time, the link will expire, and recipients of the link will no longer be able to access the linked files. Through this measure, you can reduce the risk of information being leaked.
- Identity Verification
Before you send any files, make sure that the recipient is really who they say they are. To confirm this, find some way to authenticate them. This can be a two-step verification system or a previous conversation over a secure channel.
If you work in a corporate environment, verify the email address or use a secure transfer support available in the company.
- Don’t Send Attachments by Email
You should know that emails are not always safe when it comes to sending sensitive files. Therefore, it is more advisable to upload them to the cloud and share the link with whomever you want.
- Restricted-Access Cloud Storage
Platforms such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive allow you to share files using custom permissions.
You can share only with specific users and revoke permissions at any stage. You will gain greater control over who can see and who can download files.
- Update Security Software
Make sure your antivirus is up-to-date, as well as using an updated operating system. Some computer threats can put files at risk before they have been sent.
- Delete Files After Transfer
Once the recipient receives and downloads the file, delete it from your sent folder. This reduces the chances for files to be exposed in external servers.
As you can see, securing your attachments is not a difficult task. However, you do need to be aware of details that could put their integrity at risk.
Whether you choose to use specialized services, set up complicated passwords, or just use the cloud, the options for protecting your information are both efficient and customizable.
