Secure File Sharing for Insurance and Health Care Professionals

Medical practices and insurance companies use file sharing to store, share, and protect important information in the cloud. Health care professionals are often handling extremely sensitive patient data. Choosing trustworthy, cloud-based, file-sharing services are critical. 

Depending on where you live, some file storage may not be eligible to store, share, or transfer Electronic protected health information (ePHI).

Understanding Data Protection Regulations:

PIPEDA - The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act is a Canadian law that governs how private sector institutions gather, use, and disclose personal information. 

HIPAA - The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act is a federal law in the United States that requires national standards to protect sensitive patient health information. 

GDPR - The General Data Protection Regulation is a regulation in the European Union that addresses personal data transfer. 

Not all cloud file storage is HIPAA, PIPEDA, or GDPR compliant. We’ve created a list of the top four compliant file-sharing tools for insurance and health care professionals.

OneDrive for Business

OneDrive for Business is HIPAA compliant and GDPR compliant. Many healthcare providers and organizations prefer OneDrive to manage their documents safely, both offline and online. OneDrive also encrypts data when in transit and when at rest. Keep in mind Microsoft requires businesses to commit to a one-year minimum when they purchase the Office 365 Essentials package.

Box

Box is GDPR compliant and HIPPA compliant. This tool allows organizations to share large files safely. File sharing in Box uses multi-layered encryption for optimal protection. Another feature on Box is the large number of integrations the platform supports. This helps businesses update info across various applications, like Trello, Oracle Marketing Cloud, Adobe, Zendesk, RingCentral, Salesforce, and HootSuite - to name a few. The software is available for Mac and PC. The box is also mobile-friendly, but keep in mind there is no Linux support.

Hushmail

Hushmail is an encrypted web-based email service. Insurance and health care professionals often communicate sensitive information via email. Hushmail is GDPR, HIPAA, and PIPEDA compliant. They provide a secure, private, encrypted email service to individuals and businesses around the globe, making sending emails overseas safer and easier. Hushmail is compliant with the top three privacy laws that govern their customers’ personal data. Hushmail can convey authenticated, encrypted messages in both directions, making sharing, and receiving emails a breeze.

Sync

Sync is a HIPAA & GDPR compliant cloud and file storage service. They cater to personal users and small healthcare clinics or businesses. One great thing about them is that, unlike other services, HIPAA/ GDPR is available even for the free personal plan. Their plans for healthcare professionals are cost-friendly and ideal for smaller businesses. Some of the top features include multiple user support, password protected sharing, offline file support, end-to-end encryption, secure link generation for file sharing, activity logs and more. While some of their features are only available in the premium option, many agree it’s worth the price for the peace of mind.

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.

Privacy in The Era of Big Data

Let’s face it. We live in a world where practically everything we do is being monitored and saved on the internet. Yes, we have access to tech devices that make our lives so much easier, and they come cheap. But what people tend to overlook when they’re browsing the web, downloading the new “it” app, or even sending a selfie to their friends is that they may not be as protected as they may think. When was the last time you read a company’s privacy policy or the T&C page? If you can’t answer, you’re not alone. Data protection and privacy are some of the most underrated acts of personal security.

Do you know how valuable your data is?

While you may think you’re just another user in the pool of thousands, brands do whatever it takes to find out more about you, your browsing habits, and even your spending history. Machine learning has enabled companies to learn things about you, like where you tend to shop, your personal contact information, and where you’re geographically located. Sounds invasive, right? Consumers must be aware of how valuable their data is, and companies must start being more transparent with their audience about their business models. Shouldn’t consumers be offered a fair and transparent trade for data about THEM?

Government’s are exploiting user data:

While we may not be entirely shocked to learn that corporate institutions are exploiting user data for their own gain, did you know that governments are doing it as well? Unfortunately, cases of identity theft are rapidly growing in developing countries. Governments who should be educating their citizens on proper data protection are instead abusing user data for their own benefits without proper consent or acknowledgment. Until appropriate laws, rules, regulations, and sensitization concerning data protection are put in place; people are at a loss. Legislation should be used to help serve their community; instead, government officials are using it for personal and financial gain. People all around the globe are simply not told about the dangers of having their information stolen. And it seems like the governments in some countries are hoping to keep it that way.

Trustwire can help keep you protected:

Everyday people online are unknowingly exposing themselves to cases of identity theft and data fraud. With the lack of rules and regulations concerning data protection laws in most countries, people are forced to take matters into their own hands. There’s a severe lack of consequences for the mishandling of private or personal information. Trustwire is tool businesses and individuals can use to ensure the data they share over the internet remains safe. Using end-to-end encryption, all files sent through Trustwire are protected from vicious internet predators.

Identity theft is at an all-time high. How do you know you’re not giving hackers exclusive access to your most sensitive information? With Trustwire, never fear your personal information being in the hands of the wrong people.

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.

Freelancers Are the New Cloud Computing| What Does The Future Hold?

Will we see a spike in traditional employees being replaced more and more by freelancers who live and work remotely?

Cloud computing has changed the tech game forever. Cloud computing is undoubtedly one of the most beneficial innovations for tech entrepreneurs since the invention of high-speed internet. They now have the power to move capital expenses to and scale their computing power as the business changes. It seems as though we’re entering a new phase of the future, and coronavirus aside, we’re seeing more and more employees being replaced by freelancers who live and work remotely.

The advantages of a remote team of employees?

• Save money. No more renting pricey office spaces.


• Acquire talent from all around the world. Freelancer platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are jam-packed with rockstar people looking for work. Maybe the best fit for the job is a person who lives in Canada, Nebraska, or Tel Aviv.


• Working from home is fun for most. People like the freedom of working remotely. No more dressing up for work or having to be in the office at 9 am sharp.

The disadvantages and challenges:

Of course, there are some considerable downsides to think about. Like, how can you develop a reliable team without ever meeting in person, and can you really rely solely on remote workers to do a job? It depends on the line of work, but many companies are saying they need their workers to be on the front line in the office.

One of the biggest challenges during this new remote working trend is undoubtedly the added security risk. Major corporations have already been the target of cybersecurity threats for years. What happens when their workers do their jobs remotely on unsecured wi-fi networks from their home or a cafe? Well, for hackers, you might as well say Christmas came early. This new breeding ground of vulnerable employees poses a significant threat to security. To avoid any security mishaps, employers are asking their workers to use secure software systems to send and receive sensitive information securely. Trustwire is 100% end-to-end encrypted, meaning no one other than the owner and rightful recipient of a file will be able to access it. The trick to outsmarting dangerous online predators is never to give them the option to hack into your system.

What’s the Solution?

Because this new working from home era is still so fresh, it’s hard to say what will happen if 50% of employees work from home in five years? Some experts suggest hiring remote freelancers for more mundane and menial tasks, and it’s proven to be very useful. However, the difference between a simple lead gen task and a sophisticated marketing strategy could not be more different. Will companies continue to allow employees to work from home, even after the pandemic passes? Only time will tell.

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

FaceApp Lets You Peek Into The Future. Does It Also Violate Your Privacy?

FaceApp is the photo-altering smartphone application that takes one of your photos and 'ages' it by decades. The app works scarily well, and the modified photographs do give users a realistic glimpse of what they could look like in 30 to 40 years, or what they may have looked like as young children. 

The app was created by Wireless Lab of St. Petersburg, Russia, and quickly soared to be amid the top free apps in both the Apple and Android app stores. This could have something to do with the major social media and celeb following. Once A-List celebrities like The Jonas Brothers, Drake, and Chris Hemsworth began shouting out the app on social media, needless to say, the buzz around FaceApp was swarming. 

The Russian hacker jokes are endless. Many influencers have taken to Twitter to poke fun at the fact that Russia now has access to many of our personal photos and potentially our information. While there is no hard evidence that FaceApp is stealing photos and taking them back to Russia for some evil project, there are a couple of privacy issues.

FaceApp And Your Privacy, What You Need To Know

FaceApp's privacy policy and terms and conditions have been raising eyebrows, and growing concerns over cybersecurity and the app are on the steady incline. One clause that stands out is that FaceApp holds extensive rights to its user's photos. Do keep in mind that many other apps do as well, though, and this is the unfortunate "norm" in the world of photo applications. According to Jeremy Gillula, who is a project director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (a nonprofit civil liberties group) does say there is cause for concern. 

According to Gillula, "The fact that a lot of apps and services usually contain this catch-all clause that says you grant us worldwide license to reproduce, modify, adapt, create derivative works from, distribute, publicly perform and display your user content always seems a little over the top to me.  

Is FaceApp Safe To Use?

It's always disheartening when a seemingly fun, harmless smartphone application can create serious concerns surrounding privacy and cybersecurity. Many of the app's young users don't give a second thought to whether or not their information is protected. However, for working professionals, people who own/operate businesses, and anyone who wants to keep their privacy, using FaceApp may not be the best idea. 

Reps from FaceApp have divulged that most of the images uploaded from their serves have a 48-hour lifespan until deleted. They claim to never sell or share user data with third parties; however, in their privacy policy, it does say they reserve the right to share some information. 

This info includes analytic tools to help measure traffic and usage trends, and these are done with third-party organizations. 

All in all, FaceApp most likely isn't using your photos for some kind of world-domination scheme, but you should still be cautious of everything you post on the app.

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 Trustwire here.

Is Zoom Protecting Your Sensitive Information

Since the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19, many people have been forced to stay at home, either to practice self-distancing or in mandatory quarantine. While we may be living in the middle of a pandemic, work must go on, even if we're doing it from our living rooms. In comes the popular video conferencing app, Zoom. This easy-to-use app is currently being utilized by millions to host work meetings, interviews, virtual birthday parties, dinners, and more. While the user-friendly, free app may be one of the most popular during the pandemic to see familiar faces online, it does come with a slew of privacy and cybersecurity issues.

Zoom's Past Privacy Blunders:

Zoom is no stranger to privacy snafus and data breaches. You may be familiar with the term "Zoombombing," where cybercriminals and trolls hijacked user's web cameras and bombarded them with inappropriate materials during their videoconferences. Zoom's chief executive, Eric Yuan, has addressed the security concerns and has apologized for the application's recent problems. While the company has promised to fix their privacy and security issues, can we trust it? When a company fails to protect its user's privacy, more often than not, it does leave a bad taste in their customer's mouths. However, so many of us are relying on the software to comply with work orders, or keep up with family and friends during the coronavirus pandemic.

Should You Still Use Zoom?

We get it; in these difficult times, many of us don't have any better options than to continue to use Zoom. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your privacy remains protected while using the app.

• Zoom is safer on mobile devices:
Use the app on an iPad, iPhone, or Android smartphone, rather than on a Mac or PC. Mobile apps that go through Apple's App Store and Google's Play store go through more rigorous review processes, including inspection for security flaws.


• Turn on Zoom security settings:
Be sure to create a meeting password to help prevent any unwanted visitors Zoombombing your video calls.


• Don't rely on Zoom to relay sensitive information:
Try to avoid using Zoom on work calls relating to any private or confidential matters.

If Privacy is Your Main Concern, Try an Alternative:

If Privacy is Your Main Concern, Try an Alternative: If your line of work can survive without video calls, stop using Zoom. With so many of us working from home now, likely you'll need to implement secure file transfer software. Trustwire is the most reliable way to send and receive files online. Use Trustwire to safely send data to your customers, employees, and colleagues.

If you require video conferences to complete your work, there are other video chatting tools available, with better reputations. Applications like Google's Hangouts, Cisco's Webex, and FaceTime for Apple devices are safer alternatives to Zoom. While they may not be as straightforward and easy to use, you can worry less about cybersecurity.

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

Are Hackers Stealing Your Information on TikTok?

TikTok, the smartphone app hailing from China that allows its users to create short dance, lip-sync, comedy, and talent videos to be shared with their following. The app beloved by teenagers and used daily by hundreds of millions of people around the globe, has had its fair share of security vulnerabilities. Check Point, one of the top cybersecurity companies in Israel, published research claiming the app can potentially allow hackers to manipulate user data and divulge personal information.

What Did Check Point Find?

Check Point researchers tested TikTok’s security weaknesses by sending themselves links with malware that allowed them to take control of other accounts, upload content, delete videos, and make private videos available to the public. The researchers were also able to retrieve TikTok users’ personal information, including names and birth dates.

Another flaw the Check Point found was a weakness that would allow cyberattackers to send TikTok users messages containing malicious links. Once the user opened the link, the attacker would have been able to take control of their TikTok accounts. Researchers were also able to retrieve personal information from user’s accounts through the official TikTok website. Check Point did send a summary of the TikTok security flaws to the Department of Homeland Security in the United States. Oded Vanunu, Check Point’s head of product vulnerability research, Oded Vanunu said: “The vulnerabilities we found were all core to TikTok’s systems.”  

Is TikTok Safe to Use?

Upon learning of the findings of Check Point’s research, TikTok has claimed to fix all of their vulnerabilities. These changes were said to be implemented in December 2019. TikTok is one of the few Chinese success stories in the West. The app is especially popular among younger users, and predictions show by the end of next year, TikTok could surpass Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Snap in the number of downloads. The problem with newer apps like TikTok is that it’s a breeding ground for hackers looking to target new services that haven’t gone through years of testing and extensive security research. Plus, many of the app’s users are young and potentially not educated or mindful of cybersecurity precautions or security updates. Members of the TikTok security team are claiming the app is safe to use for all, and the privacy of their users will remain a top priority.

More Shortcoming for TikTok:

Back in February 2019, the Federal Trade Commission filed a complaint against TikTok, stating the app illegally collected personal information from minors. In the charge, another popular app Musical.ly, which is owned by TikTok, was said to violate the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. TikTok agreed to pay $5.7 million to settle the complaint. It’s still not the end of the road, TikTok is being investigated by the British Information Commissioner’s Office to determine if the app has violated European privacy laws.   

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.

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.

Cybersecurity: Everything you need to know to protect your important files from hackers

Privacy was once thought of as our instinctual rights as humans. We used to think that our online work, data, and files were protected from malicious behaviors. With the slew of hackers in this generation, unfortunately, times have drastically changed. Many governments have complete access to all their citizen's personal online data, and cyberattacks are at an all-time high. Keeping your data safe is at the heart of the privacy pandemic we're currently experiencing. We're giving you insider tips to ensure your important files will always remain safe from hackers.

How to practice safe online habits:

An Internet Service Provider or ISP always monitors your internet activity. That's normal; however, your ISP is in jeopardy of being hijacked by a hacker. While you, the consumer, can't do much about attacks on an ISP, you can take extra cybersecurity measures to ensure your information remains untouched. Follow the guidelines below to ensure your data is safe from hackers.

• Don't use email to send important data:
Many of us believe that email is safe, and it's understandable to think why. Major media providers like Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook make us presume that when we send a private email, it remains protected. However, that's not the case. Not only do the companies have full access to everything you send through their platforms, but they also don't always put the best cybersecurity practices to use.


• Practice secure file transferring:
What exactly does secure file transferring mean? When you send data from one person to another over the internet, that data may have succumbed to an online attack. If a hacker is on the same network as you, or the person receiving the files, they can get access to them. Use file-sharing tools, like Trustwire, to ensure hackers can't steal your personal information. Trustwire uses end-to-end encryption, which encodes information and makes it unreadable by unauthorized parties. That means only you and the person receiving the file will be able to see it. Trustwire can be used from anywhere in the world, without having to clog your laptop with pesky applications.


• Invest in a mobile hotspot:
While sitting in your local coffee shop with free Wi-Fi, you may want to think before you click the connect button. Yes, free Wi-Fi is enticing, but hackers may be able to access the info you are sending through these public, unsecured Wi-Fi networks. If you can, avoid all public Wi-Fi if you plan on making an online purchase, sending sensitive information, or logging in to your baking details. To avoid relying on free Wi-Fi, use a mobile 4G/LTE connection through your smartphone. Most cellular providers offer unlimited data today for fair prices. While you may have to tack on a few extra bucks at the end of the month on your phone bill, it will be well worth it in the long run.

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.