Take care of your Computer

A computer is a key component of any freelance journalist’s kit.

They are used to research and produce stories, contact sources, communicate with editors, talk to family members and store information and materials, so it’s vital that you take care of your computer and minimise the risk of theft, damage and infection from viruses.

Best practice: computers

• Ensure you have a pin lock on your computer. Make it as long as possible.
• Avoid leaving your computer unattended or with people you do not know. Do not lend your computer to others. Only get your computer  repaired with reputable businesses.
• Keep the software and operating system on your computer updated. This will help protect it from vulnerabilities.
• Consider using antivirus software, like this free one from Avast.
• Back-up your data regularly. You may want to back up to an external hard drive, as well as to an online cloud; however, online services may be vulnerable to attack. See our guide on securing your materials.
• Know what content is stored on your computer and understand how that can put you at risk if your device is stolen or seized. This includes documents, recordings and photos.Consider encrypting your computer to protect your data. See our guide on encryption for information on how to do this.

Setting up your computer to remote wipe files

If your computer is lost, confiscated or stolen, you may be able to remote wipe the files – but you will need to set up your computer beforehand to do this. Note that remote wiping relies on your device being connected to the internet.

Use the following guides to set up remote wipe:

• Remote wipe for iCloud
• Remote wipe for Microsoft
• Remote wipe for IPhone
• Remote wipe for Android