Sharing Sensitive Information Securely

Best Practices in the Digital Age- The Critical Need for Secure Information Sharing

In today’s digital age, the importance of secure information sharing cannot be overstated. Every day, individuals and businesses share sensitive documents and personal data online, often without considering the risks. The pain of unauthorized access to confidential information can be devastating, leading to identity theft, financial loss, and severe breaches of privacy. Secure file sharing and the use of secure file transfer protocols are essential to protect against these threats.

The Risks of Insecure Data Sharing

Sharing sensitive information without proper security measures exposes you to significant risks. Personal data and confidential information can easily fall into the wrong hands if not adequately protected. Unauthorized access can result in data breaches, where sensitive documents are exposed to malicious actors. These breaches not only harm individuals but can also damage the reputation and financial standing of businesses.

Securely Sharing Sensitive Information

This blog provides tips and best practices for securely sharing sensitive information using encrypted methods. By focusing on secure file sharing and encryption, you can ensure that your personal data and confidential information remain safe from unauthorized access. Apps like iStratus offer robust encryption features that make secure file sharing easy and reliable. In the following sections, we will explore how to use these tools effectively to protect your data in the digital age.

Understanding Sensitive Information

What Information Is Considered Sensitive?

Sensitive information refers to any data that, if exposed, could cause harm to an individual or organization. This type of information is usually protected by privacy laws and regulations due to its potential impact if misused. Key categories of sensitive information include:

    • Personal Data: This encompasses any information that can identify an individual, such as names, addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, and email addresses.
    • Financial Information: Details like bank account numbers, credit card details, and financial statements fall under this category. Unauthorized access to this information can lead to significant financial loss.
    • Health Records: Medical histories, prescription information, and any other health-related data are considered highly sensitive. The exposure of this information can lead to privacy invasion and misuse.
    • Confidential Business Information: Proprietary business data, including trade secrets, intellectual property, and internal communications, are critical to protect to maintain a competitive edge and operational security.

What Are The Risks?

Insecurely sharing sensitive information can lead to severe consequences. Here are some of the key risks:

    • Identity Theft: When personal data is compromised, malicious actors can use it to impersonate individuals, leading to fraudulent activities like unauthorized financial transactions and account takeovers.
    • Financial Loss: Unauthorized access to financial information can result in direct financial theft, fraudulent transactions, and significant monetary loss for individuals and businesses.
    • Privacy Invasion: Exposure of personal data, health records, and confidential business information can lead to privacy breaches, causing emotional distress, reputational damage, and legal repercussions.
    • Unauthorized Access: Sensitive documents and data shared without proper security measures can be intercepted by unauthorized parties. This can lead to data breaches, loss of intellectual property, and other serious security incidents.

Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of secure file sharing, using encryption, and employing secure file transfer protocols to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and potential misuse. In the following sections, we will delve into practical steps and tools, like iStratus, to ensure your data-sharing practices are secure.

Basics of Encryption

What is Encryption?

Encryption is a process that converts readable data into an unreadable format to protect it from unauthorized access. This transformation uses algorithms to encode the data, ensuring that only authorized parties with the correct decryption key can access and read it. Encryption is a fundamental aspect of secure file sharing, safeguarding sensitive documents and personal data from potential breaches.

Types of Encryption

There are several types of encryption, each with its methods and use cases. The two primary types are symmetric and asymmetric encryption:

    • Symmetric Encryption: This type of encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. It is efficient and suitable for encrypting large amounts of data quickly. However, the main challenge lies in securely sharing the encryption key between the sender and the receiver. Common symmetric encryption algorithms include Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Data Encryption Standard (DES).
    • Asymmetric Encryption: Also known as public-key encryption, this method uses a pair of keys – a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. The public key can be shared openly, while the private key remains confidential. Asymmetric encryption is more secure for exchanging keys but is slower compared to symmetric encryption. Examples include RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography).

Importance of Encryption

Encryption is critical for secure information sharing for several reasons:

    • Protection Against Unauthorized Access: By encrypting sensitive documents and personal data, you ensure that only those with the correct decryption key can access the information, preventing unauthorized access and data breaches.
    • Maintaining Data Integrity: Encryption helps maintain the integrity of the data being shared. Any tampering or alteration of the encrypted data will render it unreadable, alerting the recipient to potential security issues.
    • Compliance with Regulations: Many industries are subject to strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Using encryption for secure file sharing helps organizations comply with these regulations and avoid legal penalties.
    • Building Trust: When individuals and businesses use encryption to protect sensitive information, it builds trust with clients, partners, and stakeholders. It demonstrates a commitment to data security and privacy, which is increasingly important in the digital age.

In summary, encryption is a vital component of secure file sharing and data sharing. It protects sensitive information from unauthorized access and ensures the confidentiality and integrity of personal data and confidential information. As we explore further, we’ll look into practical applications and tools like iStratus to implement these encryption techniques effectively.

Secure Methods for Sharing Information

Email Encryption

Using Encrypted Email Services

For secure file sharing and data sharing via email, using encrypted email services is crucial. Here are two highly recommended options:

    • ProtonMail: ProtonMail offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages. ProtonMail is user-friendly, provides a secure file transfer protocol, and has a strong focus on privacy with no tracking or logging of user data.
    • Tutanota: Tutanota is another excellent option that offers encrypted email services. It provides end-to-end encryption for emails and calendars, ensuring that sensitive documents and personal data remain confidential.

Encrypting Emails with Standard Providers

If you prefer to use standard email providers like Gmail or Outlook, you can still enhance security with encryption:

    • Gmail: Gmail offers built-in encryption for messages sent between Gmail users (TLS encryption). For additional security, consider using third-party extensions like FlowCrypt, which provides PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) encryption.
    • Outlook: Outlook also supports encryption. You can enable S/MIME (Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) to encrypt and digitally sign emails. Alternatively, you can use third-party services like Virtru for additional encryption options.

Messaging Apps

Secure Messaging Apps

Using secure messaging apps is another effective way to share sensitive information. Here are some top recommendations:

    • Signal: Signal offers end-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and video chats. It also supports self-destructing messages, ensuring that confidential information is not stored indefinitely.
    • WhatsApp: WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls, making it a secure option for sharing personal data and sensitive documents.
    • iStratus: iStratus provides secure messaging with end-to-end encryption, allowing users to share sensitive information confidently. Its integrated task management and calendar management features make it a comprehensive productivity app.

Features to Look For

When choosing a secure messaging app, consider the following features:

    • End-to-End Encryption: Ensures that only the sender and recipient can read the messages.
    • Self-Destructing Messages: Allows messages to be automatically deleted after a set period, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
    • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Ensures that the app works seamlessly across different devices and operating systems.

File Sharing Services

Secure Cloud Storage

For secure file sharing, using encrypted cloud storage services is essential. Here are some recommended options:

    • iStratus: iStratus offers robust encryption for secure file storage and sharing. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make it ideal for both personal and business use.
    • Google Drive with Encryption: While Google Drive provides basic encryption, you can enhance security by using third-party tools like Cryptomator to encrypt files before uploading them.
    • Dropbox with Encryption: Dropbox also supports encrypted file storage. Tools like Boxcryptor can add an extra layer of encryption to protect your sensitive documents.

Encrypted File Sharing

To securely share files, consider using the following tips and tools:

    • iStratus’ Encrypted File Sharing: iStratus provides a secure file transfer protocol, allowing users to share encrypted files easily. Ensure that both the sender and recipient use the app for maximum security.
    • Password-Protected Files: When sharing files via email or cloud storage, use password protection to add an extra layer of security. Ensure that the password is shared through a different communication channel.
    • Secure Links: Some services offer secure links for file sharing. These links can be set to expire after a certain period, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

By utilizing these secure methods for sharing information, you can protect your sensitive documents and personal data from unauthorized access. Whether through encrypted email services, secure messaging apps, or encrypted file-sharing tools like iStratus, taking these precautions ensures that your confidential information remains safe in the digital age.

Using iStratus for Secure Sharing

Introduction to iStratus

iStratus is a comprehensive productivity app designed to enhance your organizational and data management capabilities. It integrates task management, calendar management, secure file sharing, and encryption into a single platform. iStratus is tailored to help users manage personal data, sensitive documents, and confidential information securely and efficiently. Its robust encryption features ensure that your data remains protected from unauthorized access during storage and transfer.

Setting Up iStratus

To get started with iStratus for secure file sharing, follow these step-by-step instructions:

    1. Download and Install: Download the iStratus app from the App Store.
    2. Create an Account: Open the app and create a new account by providing your email address and setting a strong password.
    3. Verify Your Email: Check your email for a verification link from iStratus. Click the link to verify your account.
    4. Set Up Security: Once your account is verified, set up additional security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA) for enhanced protection.
    5. Explore Features: Familiarize yourself with the app’s interface and features, including task management, calendar integration, and secure file sharing.

Encrypting Files

Encrypting files in iStratus is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:

    1. Open iStratus: Launch the iStratus app on your device.
    2. Select Files: Navigate to the file section and select the files you want to encrypt.
    3. Choose Encryption: Click on the encryption option. You will be prompted to set an encryption password. Ensure that this password is strong and unique.
    4. Encrypt: Confirm the encryption process. iStratus will encrypt the selected files, making them accessible only with the decryption password.

Sharing Encrypted Files

Sharing encrypted files securely through iStratus involves a few simple steps:

    1. Navigate to Encrypted Files: Open iStratus and go to the encrypted files section.
    2. Select Files to Share: Choose the encrypted files you wish to share.
    3. Generate Secure Link: Click on the ‘Share’ option and generate a secure link. This link will allow the recipient to access the encrypted files.
    4. Set Permissions: You can set specific permissions, such as expiration dates for the link and access levels for the recipient.
    5. Share Link: Copy the secure link and send it to the intended recipient through a secure communication channel, such as an encrypted email service or a secure messaging app.

By using iStratus, you can ensure that your sensitive documents and personal data are protected through robust encryption and secure file-sharing methods. This comprehensive solution not only enhances your productivity but also provides peace of mind by safeguarding your confidential information from unauthorized access.

Best Practices for Secure Information Sharing

Strong Passwords

Tips for Creating and Managing Strong Passwords:

    • Use a Mix of Characters: Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters to create a complex password.
    • Avoid Common Words and Phrases: Steer clear of easily guessable words, names, or sequences (like “password123” or “qwerty”).
    • Make It Long: Aim for at least 12-16 characters. The longer the password, the harder it is to crack.
    • Use Passphrases: Consider using a series of random words or a memorable phrase that includes a mix of characters.
    • Unique Passwords: Use different passwords for different accounts to prevent a single breach from compromising multiple accounts.
    • Password Managers: Utilize password managers like LastPass or 1Password to generate, store, and manage complex passwords securely.

Two-factor Authentication (2FA)

Importance of 2FA: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just a password but also a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or a fingerprint scan. This greatly reduces the chances of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised.

How to Enable 2FA:

    1. Find the Setting: Go to the security settings of your online account.
    2. Enable 2FA: Select the option to enable two-factor authentication.
    3. Choose a Method: You can often choose between receiving a code via SMS, using an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator), or receiving a push notification.
    4. Follow Instructions: Complete the setup by following the on-screen instructions. You may need to enter a code sent to your phone or scan a QR code with an authenticator app.

Regular Updates

Keeping Apps and Devices Updated: Regularly updating your apps and devices is crucial to protect against vulnerabilities. Software updates often include security patches that fix known issues and improve the overall security of the system.

Tips for Regular Updates:

    • Automatic Updates: Enable automatic updates for your operating systems and applications whenever possible.
    • Regular Checks: Periodically check for updates on devices and apps that do not update automatically.
    • Update Notifications: Pay attention to update notifications and act on them promptly to ensure your devices are protected against the latest threats.

Awareness and Training

Educating Yourself and Others: Staying informed about security best practices and potential threats is vital for protecting sensitive information. Education and training can help you recognize and avoid phishing scams, malware, and other security threats.

Tips for Awareness and Training:

    • Online Courses: Take online courses on cybersecurity basics and advanced practices.
    • Stay Informed: Follow reputable security blogs and news sites to stay updated on the latest threats and best practices.
    • Workshops and Seminars: Attend security workshops or seminars to learn from experts and stay current with the latest security trends.

Backup

Regularly Backing Up Encrypted Data: Regular backups ensure that you can recover your data in case of a loss, whether due to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or a cyber attack. Encrypting your backups adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if your backup is compromised, your data remains protected.

Tips for Effective Backup:

    • Automated Backups: Use automated backup solutions to ensure regular and consistent backups without manual intervention.
    • Multiple Locations: Store backups in multiple locations, such as on an external hard drive and a secure cloud service.
    • Regular Testing: Periodically test your backups to ensure that data can be successfully restored.

By following these best practices, you can significantly enhance the security of your sensitive documents, personal data, and confidential information. Implementing strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping your software updated, educating yourself and others, and regularly backing up encrypted data are all essential steps in maintaining robust data security.

Securing Your Sensitive Information

Protect Your Sensitive Information

We strongly encourage you to adopt these practices to safeguard your sensitive documents, personal data, and confidential information. In the digital age, secure file sharing and data sharing are not just optional but necessary to protect against unauthorized access and potential data breaches. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure that your information remains secure and your privacy intact.

Start Using Secure Methods Today

Stay informed about the latest developments in digital security and continually update your knowledge and practices to keep your data protected. By being proactive and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with digital information sharing.

Take the first step towards better security by starting to use secure methods like iStratus for sharing sensitive information. Download our app today.

The Advantages of Digital File Cabinets

The Shift from Physical to Digital Document Management

The transition from physical to digital systems is becoming increasingly crucial for both personal and professional environments. A digital filing cabinet, which replaces traditional filing cabinets, offers an advanced way to manage, store, and secure important documents. This transition not only enhances accessibility and organization but also contributes to the creation of a paperless office, leading to greater overall efficiency.

The Evolution from Physical Filing Cabinets to Digital Solutions

Historical Context and Limitations of Physical Filing Systems

Traditionally, physical documents were stored in filing cabinets—a method that, while effective for decades, presented numerous challenges. These challenges included extensive storage space requirements, vulnerability to physical damage, and considerable time spent managing paper documents. The digital revolution introduced the electronic file cabinet, transforming how we store and access our most crucial data.

Defining the Digital Filing Cabinet

A digital or electronic file cabinet is a system that organizes digital documents in a virtual environment, often using cloud storage. Unlike traditional storage cabinets that require physical space and manual sorting, a digital filing cabinet allows for storing a wide range of files in a compact, digital format that can be accessed from anywhere, providing easy access and secure data storage.

Advantages of Digital File Cabinets

Accessibility and Convenience

Digital filing cabinets offer unparalleled accessibility. Users can retrieve digital documents anytime and anywhere, provided they have internet access. This capability is crucial for businesses that operate across multiple locations or for individuals who travel frequently. Cloud storage solutions like iStratus, ensure that important documents are always at your fingertips, significantly reducing the downtime associated with accessing physical file folders.

Enhanced Organization and Searchability

One of the most significant advantages of an electronic file cabinet is its powerful search functionality. Users can quickly locate files using keywords, tags, or even content searches within documents. This level of searchability and organization dramatically improves efficiency, especially when handling large volumes of data.

Security and Data Protection

Digital filing cabinets improve document security. Sensitive information can be protected with advanced encryption, and access can be controlled through temporary passwords and user permissions. This security is paramount for protecting business data and personal information alike, reducing the risk of data breaches compared to physical document storage.

Cost-Effectiveness and Environmental Benefits

Moving to a digital system significantly reduces the need for physical storage space and the costs associated with printing and maintaining paper documents. Furthermore, digital solutions support environmental sustainability by reducing paper use, contributing to the goals of a paperless office.

Practical Applications in Various Settings

Personal Use: Managing Household Documents

For individuals, a digital filing cabinet like iStratus simplifies the management of personal records such as bills, receipts, and insurance policies. The ability to organize and store these documents electronically makes personal administration tasks more manageable and secure.

Professional Use: Streamlining Workflow and Compliance

In professional settings, digital filing cabinets facilitate efficient project management and compliance with regulatory requirements. Businesses benefit from being able to store and manage contracts, employee records, and compliance documents with ease. The efficiency gained from digital document management systems allows companies to focus more resources on core activities.

Best Practices for Transitioning to Digital Filing Systems

Adopting a digital filing cabinet involves more than just transferring physical documents into digital formats. It requires a strategy that includes proper data migration, ongoing system maintenance, and training for individuals to ensure smooth operation. Establishing robust data privacy and security measures is also crucial to protect sensitive information.

Embracing the Digital Advancement

The transition from traditional filing cabinets to digital filing systems represents a significant advancement in document management technology. By adopting digital solutions, both individuals and businesses can achieve higher levels of efficiency, security, and accessibility. As we move towards more digital workplaces, the benefits of electronic file cabinets become increasingly apparent, making now the perfect time to consider making the switch to a more organized, secure, and efficient way of managing important documents.

Start Your Digital Transformation with iStratus Today

Ready to streamline your document management and boost your productivity? Download iStratus now and experience the power of a digital filing cabinet at your fingertips. Whether for personal use or streamlining your business operations, iStratus offers a comprehensive suite of tools to help you organize, access, and secure your important documents effortlessly. Join the thousands who have moved from paper to pixels and transformed their document management into a more efficient, secure, and accessible practice.

Don’t let paper slow you down—embrace the future with iStratus today!

Securing Your Digital Life: Understanding Encryption and Data Protection

The protection of our personal and sensitive data has never been more critical. The alarming rise in data breaches and cyber threats has put data security at the forefront of global concerns. Encryption and data protection stands as the first line of defense, ensuring the privacy and security of our most confidential information. This comprehensive guide explores the indispensable role of encryption in fortifying data security, offering an in-depth look at how advanced tools like iStratus can empower users to protect their sensitive data effectively.

The Importance of Protecting Your Data

Personal data, from financial records to private communications, is the lifeblood of our digital identity. In an age where information flows freely across the internet, the potential for data breaches has escalated dramatically. Such incidents can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and significant personal and professional damage. Therefore, securing personal data through robust encryption methods is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity for safeguarding your digital footprint against unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Exploring the Landscape of Data Security

Data security encompasses a wide range of practices designed to protect digital information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. Among these practices, encryption stands out for its ability to convert sensitive data into a format that is unreadable to anyone without the correct decryption key. This article will delve into the significance of encryption in data protection, shedding light on how it acts as a critical barrier against data breaches.

The Role of Encryption in Safeguarding Sensitive Data

Encryption is the cornerstone of data security, offering a powerful means to protect sensitive data across various platforms and communication channels. Whether it’s for securing personal data, conducting secure file sharing, or protecting against data breaches, encryption ensures that your information remains confidential and secure. We’ll explore the different aspects of encryption and how it integrates with data protection strategies to provide comprehensive security for your digital life.

How iStratus Enhances Data Protection and Security

In the quest for enhanced data security, tools like iStratus play a pivotal role. iStratus goes beyond conventional data protection methods by offering an encrypted digital environment where users can safely manage their personal and sensitive data. From secure file sharing to safeguarding against data breaches, iStratus provides an all-encompassing solution for individuals looking to elevate their data security. This article will highlight the features of iStratus that contribute to its effectiveness in encryption and data protection.

What We Will Discuss

Throughout this article, we will cover the critical aspects of encryption and data protection, the threats posed by data breaches, and the importance of securing personal data. We will also provide insights into how iStratus can be utilized as a powerful tool in your data security arsenal, offering practical advice on leveraging its features for maximum protection. Join us as we navigate the complexities of data security and explore the solutions that can help you maintain the privacy and integrity of your sensitive data in the digital age.

The Essence of Encryption: A Deep Dive into Data Protection

Safeguarding our personal and sensitive information is paramount. Encryption serves as a vital shield, enveloping our data in a layer of protection that is impenetrable without the right key. This section explores the intricate world of encryption, focusing on its role in maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our digital data.

Understanding Symmetric Encryption

Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encrypting and decrypting data. This method is efficient for large volumes of data, making it a popular choice for securing online transactions and communications. By utilizing a single encryption key, symmetric encryption ensures that sensitive information, such as financial transactions and personal emails, remains secure from prying eyes.

The Critical Role of Key Management

Key management is the process of handling and safeguarding encryption keys to prevent unauthorized access. Effective key management ensures that the encrypted data remains secure throughout its lifecycle. It involves generating, storing, distributing, and destroying keys in a secure manner. Proper key management is essential for maintaining the security of encrypted data, as the strength of encryption lies not just in the algorithm but in the security of the key itself.

Securing Databases through Encryption

Database encryption involves encrypting data stored in a database to protect it from unauthorized access, including those with physical access to the storage medium. This practice, known as database encryption, is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information such as personal records, financial details, and confidential corporate data. By encrypting the contents of a database, organizations can ensure that their data remains secure, even in the event of a data breach.

Strategies for Data Loss Prevention

Data loss prevention (DLP) encompasses a set of tools and processes designed to identify, monitor, and protect data in use, in motion, and at rest. Encryption plays a key role in DLP by ensuring that, even if data is lost or stolen, it remains inaccessible to unauthorized users. By implementing encryption as part of a broader DLP strategy, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of sensitive information being exposed.

Mitigating Data Breaches with Encryption

A data breach can have devastating consequences, leading to the loss of sensitive information, financial damage, and erosion of trust. Encryption acts as a critical line of defense against data breaches by rendering the data useless to anyone without the proper encryption key. By encrypting data at rest, in use, and in transit, organizations can minimize the impact of a breach and protect their information from unauthorized access.

The Importance of the Encryption Key

The encryption key is the cornerstone of data security. Without the key, encrypted data remains a mystery, inaccessible and secure. The strength and management of the encryption key directly influence the effectiveness of encryption in protecting sensitive data. Ensuring the security of the encryption key is paramount, as it is the linchpin in the defense against unauthorized access and data breaches.

Why Encryption Matters More Than Ever: Safeguarding Our Digital World

As the digital landscape expands, the flow of personal information across the internet becomes constant and pervasive. The protection of this data has escalated from a mere precaution to an absolute necessity. This section highlights the critical importance of encryption in today’s interconnected world, ensuring that our sensitive data remains secure and private.

The Ubiquity of Digital Information Exchange

In the age of digital transformation, every online action—from banking transactions to social media interactions—entails the transfer of sensitive information. This constant exchange makes personal data vulnerable to interception by malicious actors. Encryption serves as a vital shield in this process, transforming sensitive data into a format that is undecipherable to anyone without the proper decryption key.

Encryption: The Guardian of Online Banking and Financial Transactions

Online banking and financial transactions are foundational to our modern economy, yet they present lucrative targets for cybercriminals. Encryption ensures the security of these transactions by encoding financial information, such as credit card numbers and bank account details, making them inaccessible to unauthorized parties. This protection is crucial in maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of online financial systems.

Securing Social Media: Protecting Personal Interactions

Social media platforms are integral to our daily communications, yet they are fraught with privacy concerns. Encryption protects personal conversations, shared media, and other data exchanged on these platforms, ensuring that private interactions remain confidential. By encrypting this data, users can engage with the digital world confidently, knowing their personal information is safeguarded against unauthorized access.

The Impact of Encryption on Cybercrime Prevention

The role of encryption in thwarting cybercrime cannot be overstated. By rendering intercepted data unreadable, encryption effectively neutralizes the threat posed by cybercriminals. This not only protects individual users but also upholds the overall security of the digital ecosystem. Encryption acts as a deterrent to data theft, making it a critical component in the fight against cybercrime.

Beyond Data Protection: Ensuring Data Integrity and Authenticity

Encryption’s benefits extend beyond privacy; it also plays a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and authenticity of data. By verifying that data has not been tampered with during transmission, encryption helps maintain trust in digital communications. This aspect is crucial in scenarios where the accuracy and reliability of data are paramount, such as in legal documents and medical records.

The Indispensable Role of Encryption

In our digital age, where personal information is constantly at risk, the importance of encryption has never been greater. It is not merely about preventing data from being stolen; it’s about ensuring that even if data falls into the wrong hands, it remains incomprehensible and useless. Encryption stands as the guardian of our digital privacy, integrity, and security, making it an indispensable tool in safeguarding our digital lives against the evolving threats of the cyber world.

iStratus: A Beacon of Data Protection in the Digital Age

In an era where digital security is paramount, iStratus stands out as a fortress of data protection. Leveraging sophisticated encryption technologies, iStratus offers a robust shield for your digital life, from routine tasks to the most confidential data. This section delves into the multifaceted encryption strategies iStratus employs to secure your digital existence.

Advanced Data Encryption: Safeguarding Your Digital Assets

  • Encryption at Rest and in Transit: iStratus implements comprehensive encryption both for data at rest and data in transit. This dual-layer protection ensures that your digital notebooks, planners, and files remain encrypted not only while stored but also during transmission. Whether you’re actively accessing your documents or they’re simply stored awaiting your next use, iStratus’s encryption shields your data from unauthorized access, making it a bulwark against data breaches.
  • Seamless Security for Daily Tasks and Sensitive Information: iStratus understands that security needs are universal, whether it’s for mundane daily tasks or highly sensitive information. Its encryption techniques are designed to offer seamless protection across the board, ensuring that every piece of data within the app is secured with the same rigor and diligence.

Secure Vault: A Sanctuary for Your Sensitive Information

  • State-of-the-Art Encryption for Your Confidential Data: The Secure Vault feature is a testament to iStratus’s commitment to data security. Engineered for the safekeeping of your most sensitive assets such as passwords, banking details, and personal identifiers, the Secure Vault utilizes top-tier encryption standards. This ensures that only you, armed with your master password, can unlock access to this treasure trove of personal information, making it an impregnable vault against unauthorized breaches.

Privacy in Sharing: Encrypted Communication Channels

  • Encrypted Sharing Options: In the digital age, sharing information is a necessity that comes with its risks. iStratus mitigates these risks through its encrypted sharing options, enabling you to transmit personal data—be it social security numbers, bank account details, or confidential documents—securely. This feature ensures that the information can only be decrypted and read by the intended recipient, providing a safe bridge for your sensitive data to travel across the digital landscape.

iStratus as Your Digital Guardian

iStratus distinguishes itself as a beacon of data protection, offering a comprehensive suite of encryption-based security measures. From safeguarding your daily digital interactions to protecting your most confidential information, iStratus delivers peace of mind in an otherwise vulnerable digital world. Its commitment to employing advanced encryption techniques across data at rest and in transit, combined with the Secure Vault and encrypted sharing capabilities, positions iStratus as an indispensable ally in the quest for digital security and privacy.

Practical Steps to Enhance Your Digital Security in the Modern World

Securing your digital life extends beyond employing robust tools like iStratus. It involves adopting a series of proactive measures designed to fortify your digital presence against potential threats. Here, we outline essential strategies that, when combined with iStratus’s comprehensive security features, provide a multilayered defense for your digital world.

Creating a Strong Foundation with Passwords

  • Utilize Strong, Unique Passwords: The first line of defense in digital security is your password. Crafting strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts is crucial. To manage this complexity, consider using a reputable password manager. These tools not only store your passwords securely but also help in generating strong passwords that are difficult for attackers to guess.
  • Layering Security with Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Elevate the security of your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible. 2FA adds a critical second layer of security, often requiring a temporary code accessible only to you on top of your password. This significantly diminishes the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised.

Staying Vigilant Against Digital Deception

  • Combat Phishing Scams: In an era where deceptive practices are rampant, being able to identify phishing attempts is vital. These scams often come in the form of emails or messages designed to mimic legitimate requests for personal information. Educating yourself and remaining vigilant against these tactics are key steps in protecting your sensitive information from being exploited.

Maintaining a Secure Digital Environment

  • Prioritize Regular Software Updates: Software developers regularly release updates that not only enhance functionality but also patch security vulnerabilities. Keeping your software updated is a straightforward yet effective method of protecting your digital ecosystem against emerging threats. Regular updates ensure that your applications and operating systems have the latest security measures in place.

A Comprehensive Approach to Digital Security

Integrating tools like iStratus with these practical steps creates a robust security framework for your digital life. From employing strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication to staying informed about phishing scams and keeping your software updated, each measure contributes to a comprehensive strategy designed to safeguard your digital presence. Embrace these practices to navigate the digital world with confidence, knowing your personal and sensitive information is protected by a multilayered defense strategy.

Securing Your Future: The Ultimate Digital Defense Strategy

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, where threats loom at every corner, securing your personal and sensitive information has become a paramount concern. The journey to comprehensive digital security is multifaceted, involving not only the adoption of cutting-edge tools like iStratus but also the integration of proactive security practices into your daily digital life. By understanding the essence of encryption, recognizing the importance of data protection, and implementing practical steps to enhance your digital security, you can create an impenetrable fortress around your digital presence.

iStratus stands at the forefront of this battle, offering a sanctuary for your digital life with its advanced encryption techniques, secure vaults for sensitive information, and encrypted sharing options. Combined with strong, unique passwords, two-factor authentication, vigilance against phishing scams, and regular software updates, you equip yourself with a robust defense against the most cunning of cyber threats.

As we navigate this digital era, the responsibility to protect our digital footprint has never been more critical. The convergence of iStratus’s innovative security solutions with vigilant personal security practices offers a beacon of hope and security in a sea of digital chaos.

Embrace Digital Security with iStratus

Now is the time to take control of your digital security. Don’t wait for the next data breach or cyber attack to question the safety of your personal information. Empower yourself with iStratus and adopt a proactive stance towards securing your digital life. Your digital security isn’t just a necessity; it’s a right. Secure it with iStratus, and move forward with confidence in a world where your digital safety is assured.

Take action now. Download iStratus and transform your digital security strategy from vulnerable to invincible.

The Busy Working Mom’s Ultimate Assistant: iStratus

Picture this: It’s Monday morning, and Sarah, a working mother of two, is already feeling the weight of the week ahead. Her youngest, Mia, has a dentist appointment on Wednesday, while her eldest, Jake, has soccer practice every Tuesday and Thursday. Sarah also has to prepare for an important presentation at work and coordinate with her team. Her phone’s gallery? A chaotic blend of work files mixed with Jake’s recent goal-scoring photo and Mia’s art class masterpiece. Sound familiar?

Enter iStratus, an app meticulously crafted to be the superhero assistant for every working mom. Here’s how iStratus can transform common scenarios into seamless experiences:

The Recurring Events Chaos 

Scenario: Every Thursday at 4 PM, Jake has soccer practice. However, this Thursday, it’s been moved to 5 PM. 

iStratus Solution: Sarah doesn’t just set a recurring reminder for Jake’s practice; she adjusts the specific date and even attaches a note about bringing an extra water bottle for the warmer weather, all without altering the rest of the recurring events.

Sharing Sensitive Information 

Scenario: Sarah needs to send her husband, Mark, their joint account details for a quick transaction. 

iStratus Solution: Instead of a risky text, Sarah sends it via iStratus. Mark receives the details securely and can access it only with the unique encryption code she provides.

Cluttered Digital Workspace 

Scenario: Amidst family photos and recipes, Sarah struggles to find a critical work file sent to her a few days ago. 

iStratus Solution: With iStratus’s Daily Workspace, she’s organized her day efficiently, segregating work files from personal ones. A quick search and the file is right there.

Unanticipated Medical Emergencies 

Scenario: Mia has a sudden allergic reaction while on a playdate. The babysitter needs her medical records. 

iStratus Solution: Sarah has digitized important documents using the app. She quickly accesses Mia’s medical records from her Digital File Cabinet and shares them securely.

Task Management 

Scenario: Amidst the daily hustle, Sarah remembers she needs to book a parent-teacher conference, buy groceries, and finalize her presentation. 

iStratus Solution: Instead of sticky notes or disparate apps, Sarah jots these down in iStratus’s To-Do List. She can even prioritize tasks, ensuring she never misses a beat.

The essence of iStratus lies in its adaptability and understanding of the varied challenges a working mom faces. For every curveball the week throws, iStratus has a streamlined, digital solution waiting. It’s an app, a planner, a personal assistant, and a digital guardian, all rolled into one.

So, to every working mom feeling the digital disarray, iStratus is your call to a seamlessly organized life. Dive into the organized digital realm you’ve always desired. 

Download iStratus and embrace the tranquility that true organization brings. Because every multitasking mom deserves the ultimate multitasking companion.

Get More Done In Less Time

As a mom, you are juggling school schedules, sports schedules, music lessons, dance lessons, dinner planning, and a thousand other tasks throughout your day. That’s one of the reasons we think iStratus is the perfect tool for you. iStratus integrates your Calendar, Contacts, Photos, File Manager, and Task Manager. Today we will share some of the ways each of these tools can help you get more done in less time.

6 Ways iStratus Can Make Mom-Life Easier

1. Calendar

We know, we know, you already have a calendar.  You are using the one that came on your iPhone, right?  iStratus does that too.  Our calendar syncs with your Apple calendar but it has some special tricks up its sleeves. As with most calendars, iStratus allows you to easily create and view multiple calendars. You’ll know when your kids have a game or practice and be able to set reminders for yourself, as well as others in the family. This way no one misses an important appointment. With our easy-to-use syncing feature, you can access and update your calendar from anywhere!

But there are a few ways our calendar is different.

  • Repeating Events

While most calendars only let you repeat events on the same day of the week or the month.  Our calendar allows you to choose the days the event will be repeated.  We have found this comes in particularly helpful when you have a child in physical therapy.  Our fans tell us this is one of their favorite time-saving features.

  • Add A Checklist

How many times have you gone to an appointment with a list of questions in your head and walked out having forgotten what you planned to ask?  With iStratus you can add a checklist to your event.  We find this helpful for doctor’s appointments, parent-teacher conferences, and even Christmas shopping.

  • Add Photos

No other calendar allows you to add photos to your event. Adding photos can be helpful in several ways.  When it’s time to take one of your parents to the doctor, take a couple of minutes to take photos of their medications instead of losing precious time writing a list of all of the medications.  You might also take photos of your tickets for a show in case you forget them on the night of the show or photos of your passports in case your passports are stolen or lost on your vacation.

  • Attach documents

Is there anything worse than showing up for sports registration and realizing you left the file with all of your documents sitting on the counter at home?  With iStratus you can attach important documents to your calendar. This can come in handy for almost any meeting. 

2. Contacts

Never lose another phone number or address with iStratus’ Contact Manager. Easily sync contacts from iCloud, Exchange, Gmail, and other sources to keep everyone’s information up-to-date. Plus you can customize contact lists for family members, sports teams, music classes, and more. 

3. Photos

iStratus knows how much mom loves her photos and has plenty of features to help you enjoy them. Sort and organize your photos in albums, sync with iCloud, upload directly from your phone or computer, share online, and more. With iStratus you can even add text to your photos for a personal touch.

4. File Manager

The iStratus File Manager makes a mom’s life easier when it comes to sharing important documents. It is a secure, cloud-based storage system that allows you to easily upload and share documents with family members or other contacts. You can also set permissions so that only certain people have access to specific files.  

5. Task Manager

Moms are always looking for ways to organize their day and the iStratus Task Manager is here to help. Create lists, assign tasks to family members, set reminders, mark tasks as completed, and more. With our Task Manager, you can easily keep all of your to-dos in one place. As with our calendar, the task manager is much more robust than other task managers.  You can add checklists, photos, contacts, and more to each task. 

6. All In One Place

We put all of these into one app.  There is no more switching back and forth between your calendar, contacts, photos, task manager, and document manager.  Instead, you will have everything you need all in one place.  With iStratus you will feel more organized than ever before.

It’s Secure

Best of all iStratus is secure.  Our encryption technology is designed to keep all of your data secure.  In a world in which cybercrime is running rampant, this is more important than ever.  How safe are your current apps?

Being a mom is not easy.  iStratus can make it easier. With iStratus, you can get more done in less time and feel confident knowing your data is secure.  Download iStratus today! You won’t regret it!

Protect Yourself From Cybercriminals

As an individual, it is important to take cybersecurity seriously. Cybercriminals are constantly coming up with new ways to steal personal information and assets. They may use malicious software (malware) or phishing emails to gain access to sensitive data. Additionally, they can exploit weaknesses in people’s passwords and other account details. In this article, we will discuss 10 ways to protect yourself from cybercriminals.

10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Cybercriminals

1. Use strong passwords and change them regularly

Cybercriminals often use simple passwords that are easy to guess or crack. Passwords should be long (think 10 characters or more), contain both numbers, letters, and special characters, and you should change them every few months. Use the iStratus password vault to save all of your passwords in one secure location.

2. Enable two-factor authentication for accounts

Cybercriminals can guess or crack passwords, but two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. This requires users to input a code sent via text message or email when logging in. We know this extra step can be frustrating but consider this. According to Microsoft, two-factor authentication “prevents 99.9% of automated assaults on its platforms’ websites and other online services.”

3. Use encryption

Encryption scrambles data so that it is unreadable to anyone without the key. Many financial services and websites now offer encryption, so take advantage of this whenever possible. And encryption is no longer just for big companies.  With iStratus encryption is available to you as well.

4. Update software regularly

Cybercriminals often exploit weaknesses in outdated software, so make sure to keep all your programs and apps up to date. No matter how often the requests come in to update your computer, it is important to take the time to do so.

5. Be wary of links and attachments

Cybercriminals may try to infect your computer with malware through links or attachments in emails or social media messages. Don’t click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.

6. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Cybercriminals can track your online activity, especially when you’re using public Wi-Fi networks. Using a VPN encrypts your data and helps protect your identity by making it harder to track where you go on the web.

7. Back up your data

Cybercriminals may try to deploy ransomware that could lock your files and folders until you pay a fee. Backing up your data regularly means that, even if the worst happens, you’ll have an extra copy of all your important information. We recently heard from a man who lost all of the photos on his phone to cybercriminals.  Because he had not backed them up he ended up paying a thousand dollars to have them returned.

8. Don’t overshare

Cybercriminals are often able to access personal information through social media posts. Exercise your right to privacy and don’t share too much on the web.

9. Be aware of phishing scams

Cybercriminals may try to trick you into giving up passwords or other sensitive information by posing as a legitimate company via email or text message. Be vigilant when it comes to emails and messages that ask for sensitive data.

10. Monitor your credit reports

Cybercriminals may use stolen information to open up new accounts or lines of credit in your name. Regularly check your credit report for any signs of suspicious activity.

Remember that cybersecurity is not something to take lightly. It’s essential to protect yourself and your assets against cybercriminals. Cybersecurity is an ongoing battle, but with vigilance and awareness, you can stay one step ahead of the bad guys.

Don’t be a victim of cybercrime — get informed and stay protected! Download the iStratus app today and take advantage of our vault and encryption.

5 Tips for Preventing Identity Theft

Cybercrime is a serious problem that is only getting worse. But there are some things you can do to protect yourself.

Identity theft is a huge problem in today’s world. According to the 2017 Identity Fraud Study, cybercriminals stole $16.8 billion from 15.4 million U.S. consumers in 2016, which was a record high! That’s why it’s so important to protect yourself from identity theft. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 tips for preventing identity theft. Follow these tips and you’ll be much less likely to become a victim of cybercrime!

Tip #01: Keep Your Personal Information Private

One of the best ways to prevent identity theft is to keep your personal information private. That means being careful about what you share on social media, not sharing your passwords with anyone, and shredding any documents that contain your personal information before throwing them away.

iStratus can help.  Our encryption software is the perfect way to secure all of the data you store on your phone.  Read more about why and how you can use iStratus to encrypt photos, bank statements, and more all in one place.

Tip #02: Use Strong Passwords

Another important way to protect yourself from identity theft is to use strong passwords. A strong password should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessed words like “password” or your birthday.

And never reuse passwords! We know this one is hard.  How in the world can you be expected to remember a different password for every account?

iStratus can help with this as well.  By using our password vault to store your passwords, you are less likely to have them fall into the wrong hands.  It also takes the stress out of trying to remember the dozens of passwords we all have to store in our heads.

Still not convinced?  Consider this. If Facebook is hacked and the passwords are exposed, within minutes, a hacker can take that data and try to access your doctor records, bank accounts, and other financial data.  Having a different password for each account helps protect you.  We think it is well worth the extra effort.

Tip #03: Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Another good way to prevent identity theft is to monitor your accounts regularly. Check your credit card and bank statements frequently for unauthorized charges and review your credit report at least once a year to look for any red flags. If you see anything suspicious, report it immediately.

The old saying, “what you don’t know, can’t hurt you,” no longer applies.  Knowing what’s happening with your accounts is a good step towards good cyber hygiene.

Tip #04: Be Careful When Shopping Online

When shopping online, be sure to only shop on secure websites (look for the “HTTPS” in the URL). And never save your credit card information on a not secure website.

Also, beware of phishing scams, which are emails or websites that pose as a legitimate company in order to get your personal information. If you’re ever unsure about a website or email, contact the company directly to verify its authenticity. This happened last year when a fraudulent ad was posted on Facebook.  The ad appeared to be a big saving on a very popular shoe.  It was only when the shoes didn’t show up that customers became aware of the fraud.

Tip #05: Protect Your Devices

Identity thieves can also access your personal information through your devices, so it’s important to protect them as well. Install security software on all of your devices and keep it up-to-date. And be sure to create strong passwords for all of your devices as well!

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from identity theft. Cybercrime is a serious problem, not just for big companies but for individuals as well.   By taking some simple precautions, you can make it much less likely that you’ll become a victim. Stay safe out there!

Phew, that was a lot of information! But it’s all important stuff to keep in mind if you want to protect yourself from identity theft. Just remember: keep your personal information private, use strong passwords, monitor your accounts regularly, be careful when shopping online, and protect your devices. And of course, use the iStratus App to protect your passwords and encrypt your data. Do all of these things and you’ll be much less likely to have your identity stolen. Thanks for reading!

Did you find this blog post helpful? Share it with your friends on social media to help them stay safe from identity theft! And if you have any questions about cybersecurity or identity theft prevention, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help! Download iStratus now!

Encrypt Your Data: Why and How

We save a lot of personal data on our phones – from photos and videos to contact information and banking details. It’s important to keep this data safe and secure, especially in today’s world where cybercrime is on the rise. One way to do this is by encrypting your data.

Encryption? What In The World Is That?

Encryption simply means scrambling your data so that it can’t be read without a special key or password. In this blog post, we will discuss why encryption is important and how you can go about encrypting your data.

Isn’t Encryption Only Used By Governments & Big Businesses?

Contrary to what you might think, encryption is more and more common among businesses, both big and small, and is now available for individuals as well. Why? Because cybercrime is no longer just a government problem.  Small businesses and individuals are more vulnerable because they are easy targets.  For the most part, they don’t believe they are going to be a real target and as a result, they don’t take precautions.

But How Important Is Your Data Anyway?

But who cares about your photos and videos, right?  And your bank information, do you save that on your phone? 

Stop and think about it for a minute. Maybe, you traveled recently and because you know your passport is important and you are a cautious person, you took a photo of it just in case you lost it. Maybe your husband called from the doctor’s office because he forgot his wallet at home.  Instead of reading the numbers to him and having him write them down, you thought you were being cautious by sending him a photo of the credit card and insurance card via text. If these scenarios sound familiar, you are not alone.  These are things people do every single day without giving them a second thought.

The bottom line is that if the data is important enough for you to save, it’s important enough for you to encrypt.

Yes, even your family photos.

How much do you cherish the baby photos you have saved on your phone or the photos from your recent trip to Bali?  Did you know that hackers may steal those photos and then hold them for ransom? Seriously, we have seen it happen.

How Can I Encrypt My Data?

Okay, all of this is good and fine but you need your information at your fingertips.  We all do.  So, how do you keep your data safe and still have everything your need completely accessible?

We have good news.  Our app can help.  By using the iStratus app, you can encrypt your data and keep all of your personal data safe from cyberattacks and even share it with members of your family with an encryption key.  Best of all, it’s inexpensive and easy to use.

How Likely Are You To Be A Cyber Victim?

We know it seems unlikely that you will be targeted by cybercrime.  But, according to DataProtect, “60 million Americans have experienced identity fraud, identity theft statistics show and 16.7 million consumers have had their personal credentials stolen and used without their knowing. This led to $16.8 billion being embezzled from consumers in a single year.”

These days, if you don’t take precautions, it is no longer a matter of if you will become a victim but when.

What Else Can I Do To Avoid Being A Cyber Victim?

There are a few key things you can do to help protect yourself from becoming a victim of cybercrime. First, encrypting your personal data is crucial. This means that even if your device is stolen or hacked, your data will be much more difficult for criminals to access. Next, staying up-to-date with cybersecurity news and trends is important so that you can be aware of the latest threats. Finally, following basic personal cyber safety rules such as not sharing too much personal information online and using strong passwords can go a long way in protecting you from cybercrime.

If you think you may have been a victim of cybercrime, it is important to report it to the authorities so that they can investigate and help prevent future attacks. Cybercrime is a serious issue and by taking steps to protect yourself, you can help make the internet a safer place for everyone.

So, there you have it.  A few reasons why encryption is important and how you can encrypt your data without making it inaccessible.  

Be sure to share this blog post with your friends and family to help them stay informed about encryption and cybersecurity! Thanks for reading!

And don’t forget to download the iStratus app to encrypt your personal data and enjoy peace of mind knowing your data is safe from cybercrime! Stay safe out there, friends!

iStratus Technology For The 21st Century

Technology has become such a critical part of the survival of the 21st-century. Any business without some level of technical “savvy” employed will likely fail. It is that essential.

We’ve previously addressed how iStratus contributes to effective communication in the workplace; on the same hand, it’s also an effective contributor technology-wise to ensuring that businesses operate more efficiently as a whole. 

At its most basic level, technology enables more productivity. Whether you’re using a processing program that like Google Drive allows you to edit with ease on the go or using the iStratus calendar system that pulls data at a tap of qwerty keys, technology makes life easier. 

You can schedule calls and appointments, and as a Manager or CEO, track employee time, whilst performing all tedious tasks that once took hours in front of a screen, in only minutes, in the palm of your hand.

Let’s explore, how to stay ahead in today’s technological world with ease.

Proficiency with Accuracy

When it comes to business, you can’t stay in business if you don’t have your agenda scheduled right. In the modern world, it can be hard to keep track of the multiple things that require completion all at once of course!  iStratus is here to help you stay on top of all “organizational formulas” maintain your professional ethos with a sense of confidence and accuracy. 

Consider the time and cost once required to compile a long list of information. Now, your schedule can be regularly maintained utilizing software that allows it to be generated or repeated as necessary within moments.

Be Diving Force of “Competition”

As much as we may dislike a cutthroat world, to some degree we need to compete against the rest to be successful or simply, survive. 

In business, your competitors no doubt use technology, so you need to employ and embrace it also. These days the connectivity of the Internet expands business horizons. 

We no longer sit in our backyard, so to speak. We are a global community, which allows us to stand out if we choose to. At iStratus we strongly promote and believe in our product, not because we simply want to “get ahead” of other businesses; we also have the desire to support and push your organization and productivity gains ahead too. Wouldn’t it be awesome if we all took upon it ourselves as human beings, to recognize that becoming a collaborator turns us into a valuable force instead of a competitor? We can all collaborate beautifully with iStratus technology. That’s the competition.

Communicate More Effectively

As we’ve mentioned in previous articles, iStratus effectively increases communication in the workplace for the better. Truthfully, none of the elements noted above functions effectively without it. Is a vital key towards success and the organized “survival of the fittest” for want of better words. 

Whatever the modality, be it an instant message, with a co-worker across the room, or across the ocean, there are no limits to a sharing interface like iStratus. The constant ease of communication allows us to forward information with clients, colleagues, or relatives, regardless of location. Technology has certainly made connecting in real-time easier than ever. 

On the flip side, putting your faith in technology to conduct business can be difficult, but sometimes you have got to take a chance. No matter what your objectives are, in iStratus you can create and address whatever it is, instantly. Your notes, lists, are placed directly where you choose, to get the job of being more organized done.

“Almost everything worthwhile carries with it some sort of risk, whether it’s starting a new business, whether it’s leaving home, whether it’s getting married, or whether it’s flying into space.”

~ Chris Hadfield

True, yet not all risks are created equally. Going into space is a greater risk than trusting technology to assist you. However, nothing is without risk, of some sort. 

Relevance Matters

Regardless of your industry or profession, iStratus is designed to make life easier. Anything we can do to help lessen the pressure upon us in some way, we will try to achieve it. The point is to make things relevant to your needs and only you can decide what works best for yourself with iStratus. We do hope you notice a difference.

We can say with integrity that our technology values your business. We strive to protect your privacy rights and ensure you find something useful in the App that supports your daily life. As the decades pass, the next generation won’t be functioning without such technology. Therefore, we will continuously strive to improve iStratus’s delivery and positive impact. The world is full of enough demands as it is – we want to help you stress a little less towards success.

Live life and roll well with iStratus.

Protecting Your Privacy

Ok, so in previous articles, we’ve looked at the military-grade encryption iStratus provides because it goes without re-emphasizing it, we highly value protecting your information. Yes. We do our part, but we feel it is also important for us to look at how you can do your part to protect yourself from “online gremlins” too. 

And stay cyber safe.

It is no surprise that technology is pretty savvy towards what we do.  — By basic definition, marketing technology, in particular, is the industry devoted in part “to tracking people” and merging their information, so advertising can be tailored to suit our interests more effectively.

This tracking occurs on multiple levels: There’s physical tracking, because we carry our cell phones everywhere we go. And virtual tracking, of all the places we visit online.

The more that is understood about how the information is being collected, shared, and sold off, the more people tend to want to protect their privacy. Still, in practice, it’s difficult to know what is effective and what is a waste of time.

Everyone wants to protect their stuff, don’t they? So here are some ideas of what we should do.

Employ Good Security

This makes sense for most of us. We’ve all seen the words and rating scales of “strong passwords” at some point when setting up an online account. Passwords are the obvious thing we need to protect, so that doesn’t need repeating here. We think you understand the importance of this.

There has been much debate surrounding online privacy within the last decade. And it must be noted there’s a definite distinction between ‘privacy’ and ‘security’ when it comes to your data.

Generally speaking:

  • Security: refers to protecting against unauthorized access of your stuff — such as phishing credit card information, or hacking bank accounts.
  • Privacy: relates to preventing your movements from being tracked for purposes of advertising or monitoring.

Download The Latest Security Updates.

You know those pesky reminders you receive from your computer or phone to install the latest security update? Download those.

As App Designers we at iStratus know Apps can be compromised by problems that people know exist and publicly report. Security “bugs” are always worked upon so such situations can be avoided at a high standard. Thus, update, to get the benefit of security.

Beware of Phishing.

There’s that word again” phishing” 

Not every attack on our security arises through malware or hackers invisibly breaking into your account. Commonly, we’re hoodwinked into divulging our passwords or personal information to some shockingly awful actors.

Bear in mind, iStratus won’t send you anything. So if ever you receive anything claiming to us, it’s not us. And please let us know!

We all recognize, scammers enjoy hitting up our phones, in calls, texts, or emails and there are also signs that these messages aren’t legit. ALWAYS check for spelling or grammatical errors, links to third-party websites other than those these should be linked to, or emails coming directly from a strange domain.

If it feels fishy, it usually is! Trust those instincts!

It’s difficult to protect your privacy online if there aren’t exactly laws to protect it in the first place.

However, in truth blocking some advertising options on major social media platforms does help. It’s a dead giveaway when things you Google show up in Social Media Advertising!!

That said, privacy settings are only so effective, without any actual laws for privacy protection itself.

There are laws involving health and credit and financial information, however, there is much evidence available online that suggests, nationally the U.S. and other countries such as Australia don’t have a universal data privacy law safeguarding our everyday online privacy.

Numerous cyber-security experts propose avoiding “blockers” and so forth as they are frequently inadequate in their effectiveness anyway because of the attention such technology requires. Besides this, it is a multibillion-dollar Ad Tech industry out there. 

Like all values of communication we’ve spoken of, you would probably be better off to advocate for rights to inform policymakers that you wish to see change with today’s online privacy.

“The best lightning rod for your protection is your own spine.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Take One Step at a Time…

When faced with this daunting issue, digital privacy and security can feel uneasy – we understand that. 

Services such as our iStratus “Password Vault” help – even just employing the basics to strengthen and protect your passwords makes a difference. Always having a vigilant eye for scams will make your accounts and information more secure. 

The Internet is not going anywhere – that’s the reality. Thus, the more aware each of us becomes towards understanding how our data is collected and used — the more we can tackle our privacy to keep it private. At iStratus, we want you to feel better and safer in mindset regarding how our digital lives will be for years to come. The only way is up!

Live life and roll well with iStratus.