Lately, I’ve been worried about the security of my financial data. As a solo freelancer, I handle everything myself, including sensitive client info and income records. I’m not exactly tech-savvy, but I know I need to step up my game.
Anyone else lose sleep over this stuff? What are you doing to keep your business finances secure?
I feel you on the security worries. I used to be pretty lax about it, but a close call with identity theft made me shape up fast.
Now I use a password manager for all my accounts. It’s been a game-changer. No more reusing passwords or writing them down.
I also keep my financial stuff on a separate computer that I don’t use for web browsing or email. It’s not connected to the internet unless I need to send something.
For backups, I use an encrypted external hard drive. I keep it in a fireproof safe along with paper copies of important documents.
One thing that helps me sleep better: I review my bank and credit card statements weekly. It takes maybe 15 minutes, but it lets me catch anything fishy right away.
It’s not perfect, but it’s way better than what I was doing before. Hope this gives you some ideas to get started!
I just use QuickBooks and keep my laptop locked up. Not too fancy, but it works for me. Backups go on a USB stick in my toolbox. Maybe I should do more, but hey, it’s just me.
Yeah, data security can be a real headache when you’re flying solo. I’ve been there.
Here’s what I do to keep my financial stuff locked down:
I also keep my work computer separate from my personal one. No Facebook scrolling on the machine with client data.
One thing that’s helped a ton: setting up alerts on my bank accounts. I get a text for any transaction over $100. Catches weird stuff fast.
It’s not bulletproof, but it helps me sleep better at night. And hey, it’s way better than my old system of ‘hope for the best’.
I just write stuff down in a notebook. Locked drawer. Clients pay cash. Simple works for me.
I keep it simple. Use accounting software with good security features. Store everything on a dedicated computer, not my main one.
Back up data regularly to an encrypted external drive. Keep that drive locked away when not in use.
For online stuff, use strong unique passwords. Check bank statements often to catch issues early. It’s not perfect, but it works for me.
Look, keeping your finances safe doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve been doing this for years, and here’s what works:
Use solid accounting software. Keep it on a separate computer. Back up to an encrypted drive regularly.
Strong passwords for everything. No reusing them. Check your bank statements weekly to catch anything off.
Don’t overthink it. Just be consistent. Set reminders if you need to. The key is doing these things every time, not just when you remember.
If you’re worried, talk to your accountant. They can point out any weak spots in your setup. But don’t lose sleep over it. Just put a system in place and stick to it.