Essential Cyber-Security Tips for Artists to Protect Their Work

It’s a sign of the times. We’ve all got to be more vigilant about cyber-security.

In fact, just a few days ago, January 28th, was Data Privacy Day. How did you celebrate?

But seriously, for artists it’s imperative to have back-ups of our data. I’ve known artists who’ve lost all of their images and even their professional records because of computer crashes – or even theft.

It devastated their business.

You’ve heard this advice before but now it’s time to do it:

Put a system in place to back-up your computer regularly.

Whether it’s a note in your calendar to do a physical back-up weekly, or whether you invest in a 3rd party application to continuously back up your data to the cloud, protecting your files is imperative.

Passwords are another important consideration – and I’ve got an interesting tip for making yours a lot stronger.

Instead of leaving yourself vulnerable with passwords that contain dates or names that are easy to hack, try this instead: Create a password that has meaning for you, one that even empowers your art practice.

Here’s what I’m suggesting:

Whenever you create a new password for your business accounts, make one that states your professional intention. This word or phrase can contain a creative mixture of letters and symbols, both lowercase and capital, to make it even more secure.

Here are some examples that I just brainstormed:

– IamanArti$t.

– Iam$ellingArt!

– Imake$beingMe

Do you get the idea? Every time you log into an online business account, such as online banking, you take a moment to set an empowering intention while knowing that you have a password that’s secure.

And you can create a different password for your creative accounts, such as online workshops, your website, or your art supplier. Here are some ideas:

– IBELIEVEINMY$ELF

– IamatalentedArti$t

– Wi$hForIt!

– $uccess!

I’ve just created these quick examples for fun, but I urge you to really think about some of the limiting thoughts and beliefs that you struggle with. And then see if you can create meaningful phrases that will help you to overcome the negative self-talk.

Meaningful passwords will serve to pepper your day with positive reinforcement. And they will keep your personal information safe.

The best part about changing your passwords to positive statements of intent? No one else will ever know!

I’ve created passwords for myself that have given me a few moments each day to remember my goals and connect with my power. This small practice has kept me focused and positive while ensuring that my data is secure from hackers.

I know these probably aren’t the most fun tips I’ve ever sent you, but they are important.

I don’t want to see you have to take backward steps because your data wasn’t secure and backed up. So please do consider how you are protecting yourself and take action to improve it.

And I hope you had a very happy Data Privacy Day!