Sending Documents Safely Over The Internet: What To Do And What Not To Do

It happens to all of us; at some point, we need to send some form of sensitive information over the internet. In some cases, we can hand deliver documents, but those opportunities are few and far between. Instead, we have to rely on technology. Whether it's tax season, receiving test results from your doctor, or collaborating with a financial planner, do you know how to remain safe from cybercriminals? Everyone, no matter your age, location, or profession, should have a strong understanding of how to safely communicate sensitive information on the internet.

Don't Send Sensitive Info by Email:

When it comes to cybersecurity, many of us assume that if we're using a major Email provider, like Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook, our information is safe. This is a common misconception. Email is not encrypted, meaning a third party can easily access your chats. When you rely on Emails to send financial information like tax documents, or personally identifiable information (PII) such as medical records, you're exposing this content. Cybercriminals don't need your username or password to gain full access to all of your personal information. They can do this by attacking the recipients of your Emails. For example, if the recipient is using an unsecured public WiFi network, your personal information is within grabbing distance to the cybercriminals who know precisely how to take it.  

Do Hand Deliver:

Placing files directly in the hand of the recipient will eliminate a data breach during transfer. This may be convenient to hand documents off to a doctor, CPA, or lawyer. However, this method isn't doable for most. Tip: If you do hand deliver, be sure to verify what the business's cybersecurity measures are and how they plan to handle your information.

Do Use Encryption Services:

You can encrypt your files with programs like 7-Zip or VeraCrypt before sending them to the recipient. Many of the encryption technologies used by these companies are up to par. However, the recipient of the files must use the same software to retrieve it.   

Don't Fully Trust Encrypted File-Sharing Services:

Services like Dropbox allow users to store and share files using their software, but it's not without risk. Aside from being subject to several security breaches, Dropbox can access the content of your shared and personal files.   

Do Send Documents Securely Over the Internet with Trustwire:

Trustwire is a browser-based file transfer method. Using the latest end-to-end encryption software, Trustwire guarantees your files will be shared safely with only the rightful recipient. Our free service means no more trips hand-delivering data, worrying about cybersecurity breaches, and knowing the information you divulge to your CPA, lawyer, or doctor remains secure. With Trustwire, you can easily exchange and access files anywhere in the world, and no downloads or installations are required. Are you ready to start surfing the internet securely? Sign up for a free account here.

Digital Security Habits Journalists Should Adapt

Cyber-crimes are a bigger threat now than ever before. Technology evolves quickly, and journalists, especially, should incorporate additional vigilance when it comes to keeping their information safe from online predators. Investigative journalism may serve the public with secretive breaking news stories, but it comes with a price. Journalists are often the target of online attacks orchestrated by a government after reporting misconduct. Whether it be aimed at smearing a journalist's reputation, discrediting their work, or taking over an account, a journalist's career is constantly at risk. How can you run your journalism business securely? Follow these digital security precautions below to ensure your business is protected.

Use End-to-End Encryption Technology:

Encryption technology allows journalists to protect their work from the eye of the government. Unfortunately, state surveillance and monitoring put journalists at severe risks of online attacks. Encryption will enable businesses and consumers to conduct business securely. From lawyers sending financial documents to a doctor divulging personal health information, end-to-end encryption is used to ensure this sensitive data is only in the hands of the rightful owners.  

Always Stay Up to Date: Are Backdoors Coming Soon to Encryption Apps?

A backdoor allows unauthorized access to a computer system or encrypted data that bypasses the system's standard security measures. More government officials are pushing to introduce backdoors in all popular messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption. What does this mean when it comes to running your business securely? These backdoors would allow the government to access any private conversations between businesses, consumers, citizens, and sources. As of now, this isn't in effect, so to best keep your intimate conversations private, always communicate on an encrypted software.

Operate Your Journalism Business Securely with Trustwire:

Exposing human rights violations, shedding light onto oppressive regimes, and reporting on a government's flaws is no easy feat. The groundwork is tough, and journalists regularly put their jobs and, in more extreme cases, their lives on the line to find a story. Trustwire provides end-to-end encryption technology for free. Use Trustwire to send and receive data from any computer around the world. Using the strongest available encryption technology on the market, your sensitive information will be kept secure from cybercriminals. Only you and whomever you wish to receive the content will have access to it. When it comes to digital security, journalists must be at the top of their game. Let Trustwire help you successfully, safely, and effectively run your business.   

Tips for Journalists to Protect Online Communications:

• Never leave your devices unattended.
• Use passwords to protect all of your online activity.
• Use an antivirus AND an anti-malware.
• Regularly update your operating system.
• Delete your digital tracks - cookies, browsing history, and always log out of social media sites.
• Only use encrypted messaging apps, like Trustwire.
• Install a VPN to encrypt your Internet connections.
• Activate your firewall.
• Segment your digital activities. Use several email addresses like a personal one, a professional one, and one for shopping online.

To learn more about how Trustwire can be a useful tool against ransomware attacks and other cybercrimes.