To Vinny and Bert,
Isn't the database already protected? Isn't there a password on the database that makes it very difficult to tamper with the database? So if someone would steal my Amazingchart.mdb, that person would have to break through the password to get any useful data, right? That person would have to figure out a way to obtain a copy of Amazingcharts that could unlock the database.
Roy, having a flash drive password protected and/or encrypted is one thing, i.e. fairly secure, but having a flash drive not protected, but the database password protected is horrible. Anyone with ANY knowledge of Access could open it. And, once you open it, all of the data is there, regardless if you have the program or not. There are hundreds of free password sniffers out there on the Internet. Which is why the AC data should be encrypted.
But, most users would copy the folder to a a flashdrive with the name still on it. It wouldn't take a genius to figure out
www.amazingcharts.com, click on the little download icon, enter the email address: a@a.com and download the EMR. There you go, all the info you want. Is it likely, probably not. Is it easy, very.
As to encrypted, hey I have been taking home unencrypted data for years. I just started playing with it lately. The nice thing about TruCrypt is it encryps that folder on the flash drive or the flash drive itself so it's set it and forget it. Never have to encrypt each time.
As to the backups at work which should be automated, XP Pro and Vista and even OS before then will automate things. Backup Assist is an excellent 3rd party program. Acronis home version is extremely cheap and an excellent backup imaging program.
I agree completely with Vinny and everyone that providers don't back up enough and encryption would make it that much less likely. I would rather see seven backups a week than encryption. But, it's a shame if a provider who is plenty smart enough doesn't take the time to learn or come up with a good strategy to protect his or her data. It's hard to remember to check LFTs and CBCs and Tegretol levels with Tegretol, but we do especially now that we have the reminder function.
CAVEAT: I'm not arguing with anyone or saying that anyone HAS to encrypt or do backups a certain way. Users can read and decide what's best for them. Until now, I don't think the topic was talked about much.
