Don't Touch My Computer

On a regular basis I am reminded of the importance of only letting the right people use my computer.

You may, or may not, be surprised at how many disaster scenarios that I am asked to fix start with "So-and-so was using my computer when..."

If you only have one computer that you share between your business and personal life it can be tempting to give in to requests from others for access to it.

Well meaning relatives and friends, your kids, neighbors and heaven forbid, strangers.

If the contents of your computer are important to you then the simple answer is 'NO". You don't have to be rude but you do have to be firm and resolute.

The same thing applies to mobile phones and/or smart phones.

It may sound harsh but I feel quite strongly about this. Sometimes we computer guys and gals just can't perform the miracle.

Of course, redundant computers, sacrificial "kids machines" and appropriate backup strategies lesson this problem.

But let's face it, no-one looks forward to the hassle of the lost computer regardless of how or why it happens.

A byte of prevention is better than a Terabyte of cure. {I had to do that:-)}