Top 5 Must-Have Tools for Professional Journalists

Remember the time when the only tools a journalist needed were a pencil and a notepad? 

Capturing a story is challenging. Newshounds have to take into consideration multiple moving pieces before they can publish an article. Luckily, it’s not 1940 anymore, and today’s journalists have a slew of apps, tools, and sites that make the job easier. 

Whether you need a tool to help with brainstorming, security, organization, research, or visuals, here are five journalism tools you won’t want to be without.

1. Pocket

The Pocket App makes saving articles, videos, and content from other publications, web pages, and apps simple. Think of it as your personal reading list. If you don’t have time to read an article as soon as you come across it or watch a video clip, save it for later. Pocket is available on iOS and Android devices, plus the base app is free!

2. Trustwire

Part of being a journalist is sharing and receiving sensitive information online. Cyber threats are at an all-time high. Share documents securely with Trustwire. Trustwire allows a reporter or source to send and collect information safely, even in high-risk environments. All files shared via Trustwire are encrypted, meaning only the file owner and the rightful recipient will be able to see it.

3. Representation Matters

As a journalist, visuals are likely a huge part of your day job. You may be familiar with other stock image libraries like Pixabay, Shutterstock, or Pexels. While those are all great tools to source images, Representation Matters is an all-inclusive stock image library. They focus on diverse and inclusive photos with themes, including body positivity, disabilities, LGBT, and more.

4. Echosec

Echosec is a free online app that allows users to generate location-based social media data from the most popular social networks. If you work at a local level, this tool can help fill your pages or create website copy as you get info from events as they unfold in real-time. For example, Echosec allows users to concentrate on an area on a map where it will then provide you with a list of Tweets (or other social media posts) that have been made from that area. The free version offers Twitter data, but if you invest in the premium version, you get results from other platforms like Instagram and YouTube.

5. Hemingway

Part of being a great journalist is captivating an audience with words. The Hemingway App makes your writing bold and clear. This tool highlights common errors, complex sentences, and lengthy or hard-to-understand sentences in your typing. The text is color-coded to make things as simple as possible. If a sentence is highlighted in yellow, it’s too long, and if it has a red highlight, it’s too hard to read. Journalists can appeal to a broader audience with high-quality, user-friendly text. This online app is free, but a paid premium version is also available.

How to Protect Your Business Trade Secrets From Being Stolen

Are you familiar with the Waymo v. Uber trade secrets case? An employee took 14,000 documents containing sensitive data, which resulted in a US$1.859 billion claim and a settlement of around US$245 million. How could something like this happen? Especially with companies of this caliber? Waymo stated they had been following sufficient security precautions to protect trade secrets. Things like encryption, security cameras, and confidentiality agreements. Of course, as the case would show, that wasn’t enough. 

A Waymo competitor likely obtained access to Waymo’s information. During the court hearings, Waymo had to explain the measures they used were consistent with the Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA). Yet, somehow over 14,000 documents filled with sensitive data were leaked. 

The question we have to be asking ourselves here is: How can a company take “reasonable measures” to satisfy DTSA requirements and protect it against theft of trade secrets?

Here are some ways that can help your business trade secrets from ending up in the wrong hands.

Identify and mark your trade secrets:

One way to protect a company’s trade secret is to understand what information is considered to be (and should be) guarded as a trade secret. What information requires secrecy? Once an institution can establish this, the information should be deemed a trade secret, identified, and marked confidential.

Limit and track access to trade secret information:

As soon as trade secrets are marketed, access must be immediately restricted. Limit the disclosure of the information only to the people “need to know” it to perform their tasks adequately. Not sure how to control access? Taking precautionary steps like physical security, passwords, encryption, and data segregation are the best ways to start. We saw a good example of this after the Waymo case played out. Waymo employees who were working on projects unrelated to self-driving cars were prevented from obtaining the information they did not need to know.

How to manage secret information:

Yes, you can take initial proactive steps to protect trade secret information, and that’s a great start! But now, you have to be mindful that continuing to manage the trade secrets is critical. Some steps to secure information like password-protected servers and folders, and employing a third-party internet security company to protect its servers from outside hacking is a great way to keep your info safe.

Sharing sensitive information:

Companies and individuals will inevitably have to send and share confidential information over the internet. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. People don’t have the option to hand-deliver files anymore. Trustwire is a platform that allows users to send and receive files online without the risks. Using end-to-end encryption, only the rightful receiver of the file will gain access to it. No one else, including Trustwire, will be given access to view the file. 

When you need to keep your private information safe on the internet, trust Trustwire.

The top 5 Best Startup Tools for 2020

Startups need to be fully equipped with the proper tools in their arsenal to survive in the highly-competitive industry. With limited resources (specifically money and time), startup founders seek help from security, accounting, and team management tools online. Luckily, there are plenty of tools that help minimize startup costs and help save a new entrepreneur’s precious time. 

Now, business owners can significantly enhance efficiency with just a few great tools. Below are the top 5 tools and resources you can use to help make your landing into the startup world a little smoother.

1. Slack

Work better at home or in the office by organizing all of your projects in one comfortable place. Slack is an incredible communication tool for both groups and one-on-one chat flows. The app is an all-in-one meeting space that helps keep teams organized. It’s incredibly useful when working remotely as well! Slack allows users to categorize their conversations in “channels,” making relevant information quick and easy to find. If you’re working on the go, Slack also has a user-friendly mobile app and integrates with other tools like Trello and Twitter.

2. Trello

Trello is a web-based project management tool that was built for improving workflow. It’s quickly becoming a household name among startups owners across the globe. This project management software allows project managers to organize multiple projects with specific tasks inside each project. This fast Kanban tool is for anyone who needs to capture, organize, and provide real-time insights regarding project status. Plus, it’s free! Trello is known for being ultra user-friendly, and the free plan offers all the tools and functionality a small startup needs.

3. Zoom

While Zoom may have gained worldwide popularity during 2020 because of COVID-19, it was actually ranked the #1 meeting tool by Gartner in 2018. The fast and reliable video conferencing software makes remote working a breeze. Startups and major corporations alike are relying on Zoom to conduct team meetings. To keep everyone in the loop, users can integrate Zoom with Slack to automatically share the recording with participants after the call ends.

4. BambooHR

BambooHR provides human resources software as a service. Brand new startups often ignore ‘corporate’ functions like HR - which is a big mistake. BambooHR is a handy online tool that makes hiring, transitioning, and recruiting a breeze. With onboarding tools and applicant tracking features, BambooHR users can easily keep track of potential applicants. The app also gives users the ability to track time-off, performance management, and e-signing.

5. Trustwire

Surely as a startup owner, you and your employees will need to send and receive multiple files. But did you know that cybersecurity risks are at an all-time high? Trustwire is an online tool to send and receive sensitive data safely. If you think sending files over email is safe, think again. Instead, use Trustwire to ensure no one other than the rightful receiver of a file will be able to open. All data is end-to-end encrypted, meaning Trustwire or any other third party can not access your data.

It Looks Like Remote Work is Here to Stay - Can You Use it to Your Advantage?

It wasn’t so long ago that remote work was out of the question for many industries. In 2020, things are taking a turn. Today, working from home or anywhere outside of the office is becoming the ‘norm.’ By the looks of it, this is the future of the modern workforce. 

According to a New York Times report, working from another location other than the office or a client site is on the steady incline. 

So, what exactly are the benefits of remote work - and could you make it work to your advantage?

Positive shifts in attitudes about work:

According to Bentley University, by 2025, millennials will make up around 75% of the global workforce. If there’s one thing that’s for sure when it comes to millennial work ethics, they’re very different from their boomer parents. Millennials are going to be shaping the work environment for years to come. This new generation of talent brings radically different expectations about the nature of work and how work should be done, when, and where it’s done. Not to say millennials don’t have a solid work ethic, they just have a different approach to working than previous generations. 

What’s going to happen when the boomers begin to retire, and millennials take over in management roles? According to a PWC study, a healthy work-life balance is their number one priority. Millennials want flexibility, and they’re willing to go to great lengths to get it. Remote work is essentially a dream come true for most millennials. They can still earn their paycheck and get their job done, all from the comfort of their own home. Today’s generation is so tech-focused that for many young workers being in an office for eight hours a day is actually counterproductive.

Remote work increases employee productivity lowers stress levels & boosts morale:

There is evidence that supports that employees working from home are more productive and work longer hours. One of the biggest woes anyone going to and from a job can attest to - it’s the daunting traffic jams and commutes back and forth five days a week. Eliminating a daunting commune, getting to sleep for an extra hour, and working alone are significant perks for many people. If an employee has a hard time focusing, working remotely should pose fewer distractions. Think about it, no talking, buzzing, and ringing noises that always seem to happen in any work environment. 

Remote work also lowers stress. Whether employees stress is caused by being in the presence of their boss, other co-workers, or anything else for that matter, 82% of remote workers reported lower stress levels. Remote workers are also reporting higher morale, and are taking fewer days off when working from home. 

By the looks of it, working from home has its benefits for both the employers and the employees. Business owners can have big bucks on office spaces and electricity, while employees can work in their pajamas. Is this a win-win?

Coronavirus: Strategies and tools for remote work during a worldwide pandemic

Along with worldwide hysteria and fear, the novel Coronavirus is also affecting the way we work, run businesses, and go about our daily lives. Unfortunately, the viral Coronavirus isn't just a threat to our immune systems, but it can be a significant cause for concern regarding cyberattacks as well. Whether you're in forced a two-week quarantine or taking safety precautions on your own from the virus, a major surge of folks has been working from home. With this new era of working outside the formal office, how will you ensure the integrity of your work remains unscathed? We've compiled a list of the best tips, tricks, and tools to get the most out of working remotely.

How to keep business running as usual:

While the Coronavirus has shaken the world, many of us still have to conduct business as usual. This can mean having employees work from home, canceling all company travel, and forgetting about any meetings in person for the foreseeable future. Follow the tips below to create a comfortable remote working environment for your employees.  

1. Strong Internet Access Some of us may take reliable WiFi for granted. Keep in mind that some of your employees may not have the luxury of lighting fast internet access at home. If that's the case, you may want to invest in mobile hotspots for your employees.  

2. Remote Work Devices Of course, your workers will need access to a laptop, but don't forget accessories like headsets, mics, and webcams too. These will be required for conducting online meetings and web conferences. If your employees don't have these items at home, it's highly recommended for the business to provide these tools. 

3. Collaboration Tools Since meetings in person are no-go at the moment, you'll want to use collaborative meeting tools like Zoom GoToMeeting to help unify communication. This way, you and your team can still hear and speak to each other without having fears of contracting the deadly Coronavirus.  

How to ensure your business remains safe:

While the Coronavirus has shaken the world, many of us still have to conduct business as usual. This can mean having employees work from home, canceling all company travel, and forgetting about any meetings in person for the foreseeable future. Follow the tips below to create a comfortable remote working environment for your employees. 

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

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.

How to Share Files Securely and Protect Your Device

If you own a business where your client's information is at risk, surely you are concerned with the safety of your customer's sensitive info being leaked, stolen, or breached. It's a fear among most business owners in the US, especially small business owners like private doctors, journalists, small enterprise owners, and lawyers. Cybersecurity is a problem that business owners decades ago never had to encounter, but in 2019 we are in the midst of the digital revolution. The days of storing your client's records in a filing cabinet are over. While going digital has had massive benefits for businesses worldwide, along with it has come an immense influx of cyberattacks. Many are left wondering what the best way to share files securely is?

Secure File Sharing - What To Do And What Not To Do

• Don't: Send sensitive documents over email

While sending an email may feel private, keep in mind the recipient may not have a protected server and may download your file from an unencrypted HTTP connection. If they're doing so from a public wi-fi network, the chances of a security breach are much higher.  

• Do: Safeguard your computer

A cybersecurity measure you should always take it safeguarding all of your devices. Always install anti-virus programs, never leave computers unattended, and conduct software updates on the regular. When choosing passwords, go for ones that are not easily guessed and back up your files regularly.  

• Don't: Rely Solely on Cloud Storage

Cloud storage providers like Dropbox and Google Drive are among the most popular. However, note that both of these services can gain full access to your files at any given time, meaning if there is a security breach, your data could be affected. These large companies may even look at your information for marketing purposes.  

• Do: Use an encrypted file-sharing service

Many file-sharing services offer encrypted transmission for file sharing. Trustwire uses only trusted and verified open-source cryptography libraries to ensure your files are protected. Trustwire guarantees never to sell or give away data and gives its users full control over their records.  

Secure File Sharing With Trustwire

While there are plenty of ways to share files online, most of those methods are not reliable. Many existing software platforms may offer features like document password protection, but that doesn't mean it applies to every file or folder. Plus, hackers today are smarter and more ruthless than ever before. The only way to ensure the files you wish to share remain private is with some form of end-to-end encryption. Trustwire uses real end-to-end encryption to guarantee that only the owner of the file can access and share the contents. Trustwire can not decrypt its user's files, making it the most secure file sharing service available. With cybersecurity breaches on the rise, be sure your devised are protected from malicious hackers with Trustwire.

Trustwire has unparalleled ease of use, meaning that your employees can quickly adjust to working with it. Furthermore, Trustwire is available on any device, anywhere in the world. Earn more about how your business can begin protecting its valuable intellectual property with Trustwire.

The future will run on 5G - How will the new era impact cybersecurity?

The fifth-generation cellular network technology, 5G, will launch a new era of wireless connections, completely changing the way we consume content. With faster speeds, more reliable connections, and lower latency, businesses need to begin supporting this explosive rate of new tech innovation. Projections show that the number of 5G users will climb to over a billion by 2023. Better cybersecurity will be part of the demands businesses must undergo to be part of the new evolution. Will the evolutionary 5G network implement new privacy challenges?

The security risk of 5G:

When we make the transition into a 5G world, several things will happen:  

• Exponentially faster speeds, higher capacity, and more flexible service delivery.
• Organizations will provide better content and offer an excellent user experience.
• Greater edge-based computing. 5G servers will have the intelligence to act as application servers.

5G will enable new technology that isn’t yet available today, and the world at large should expect substantial potential benefits. However, the implementation of 5G technology will also create new opportunities for those who wish to exploit it. 5G will disrupt the traditional relationships between networks, computing resources, and end-users, causing a notable impact on cybersecurity.  

5G and your privacy:

Challenges such as access to local info, health and lifestyle data, and leakage of personal voice are very real privacy concerns when it comes to 5G security. Remember, adequate 5G protection will not be a one-size-fits-all approach. With the upcoming different 5G entities, each will require different security needs.

5G and end-to-encryption:

When it comes to secure file sharing, end-to-end encryption has been the go-to for the past decade. How will you ensure your sensitive info is safe when we make the change to 5G? Cybersecurity solutions will have the challenge of deciphering which web traffic contaminated and conclude if any traffic is malicious. One way people are choosing to keep their sites safe is through Encrypted Traffic Analytics. ETA uses advanced algorithms to detect malicious traffic patterns of encrypted traffic. The technology can identify potential threats hiding in encrypted traffic. Exploring the potential benefits of ETA may be the key to keeping your website secure when 5G is in full swing.

What can you do?

Whether you’re ready or not, 5G is on its way, and it’s best to prepare as soon as possible.

Three steps to preparing for 5G

1. Cybersecurity technologies are a must. Don’t look at them as an added cost; instead, see them as strategies to ensure your organization remains safe during the changing times.

2. Don’t let security woes ruin the opportunity for your organization to reap the benefits of 5G.

3. Start preparing now, so when the time comes, you will be ready. Don’t wait until you deploy 5G to implement a better security strategy. Start using cybersecurity technology now to stay ahead of the game.

Trustwire has unparalleled ease of use, meaning that your employees can quickly adjust to working with it. Furthermore, Trustwire is available on any device, anywhere in the world. Earn more about how your business can begin protecting its valuable intellectual property with Trustwire.

Why Professionals Are Choosing Trustwire To Transfer And Save Files?

Journalists, Lawyers, Doctors, Enterprises, and anyone who works with sensitive data must keep their client's info protected. Cybersecurity is at an all-time high. Today, it's almost impossible to do any sort of business without personal data winding up in a networked Computer system. Whether you're at home, down the street, or across the world, keeping all data secure is crucial. Read on to learn about why more people are choosing Trustwire to store and send their sensitive data online.

What is strong encryption, and why is it important?

End-to-end encryption technology helps protect personal data by making it unreadable to anyone who doesn't have the code key. Think of it like a jigsaw puzzle, your data will be scrambled using a "secret code," and only those who Today, cybersecurity and secure file sharing are more important than ever before. Vast amounts of personal data are managed online and stored in the cloud or on third-party servers. While storing files and records on the cloud can help, it's far from 100% secure. The only way to protect your privacy on the web, share your files securely, and defend your business against cyber attacks is with end-to-end encryption. Trustwire gives users secure end-to-end encryption so hackers won't stand a chance of getting their hands your files.

Trustwire's SecureLink makes secure file sharing a breeze:

Encryption tools can be annoying and challenging to use. Trustwire is committed to offering the most user-friendly and accessible protection to professionals and small business owners. Users don't have to clog up their phones and laptops downloading and installing apps. Trustwire is web-based, meaning all files can be shared online from anywhere in the world. Send your SecureLink address to anyone you wish to share confidential records. If the receiver clicks on your SecureLink address, you, the owner, may then send files securely. There are no sign-ups, no installations, and no pesky blast emails.  

Internet privacy concerns are on a steady incline:

The purpose of cybersecurity is to help prevent data breaches, cyberattacks, and eliminate identity theft. Sounds great right? Well, today the 'bad guys' or hackers are coming up with new methods to hack into sensitive information. Just like technology is always evolving, cybercriminals are getting smarter, they’re developing new ways to produce more malicious code to compromise data. Hackers don't discriminate either; they are thieves; they will attack all types of businesses and corporations from doctors offices to non-profits.

Trustwire solves all information security issues:

Hacking is a big business. Hackers aren't bored teenagers in basements anymore. They are smart, ruthless, and out to steal personal information. To keep your money out of the hacker's pockets, verified open-source cryptography is a must. Trustwire uses only Verified open-source cryptography libraries. While that may sound like a mouthful, in other words, Trustwire can ensure that the encryption algorithms do not have backdoors and are secure. Even users who don't consider themselves to be tech-savvy can use Trustwire to Keep their information private.

Keeping things simple is what we do best here. We found the perfect balance between usability, security, and accessibility. Trustwire does not track usage and will never sell data. The owner of the document fully controls any data stored on the Trustwire servers. 

Trustwire has unparalleled ease of use, meaning that your employees can quickly adjust to working with it. Furthermore, Trustwire is available on any device, anywhere in the world. Earn more about how your business can begin protecting its valuable intellectual property with Trustwire.