Companies fear computer data catastrophes that may eliminate important files due to hackers, theft, hard drive failures or viruses. But if businesses prepare for uncertain situations, the end result won't be as devastating.

Bobbie Gossage, senior editor for Inc. Magazine, says preparation is key for companies to recover from computer disasters. Loss of data can hit small to midsize businesses that don't keep up-to-date on file backups and data security.

When a laptop is stolen, Gossage says it can turn into a customer service nightmare — companies must notify clients of stolen personal information like Social Security numbers or credit card information. To help recover laptops, companies may purchase programs such as MyLaptopGPS or Absolute Software's Computrace LoJack in order to track the stolen computer. Once the thief connects to the Internet, the machine relays its location to the authorities. Other programs even allow you to delete files from the stolen computer, according to Gossage. A company's best bet is to make sure to encrypt personal files on the hard drive. No one can use encrypted files, plus it saves the costs of having to notify clients of stolen information.

If your computer dies and your IT department is no help, you can try data recovery services that could cost thousands of dollars; this doesn't even guarantee data will be brought back. Gossage suggests backing up hard drives on a continual basis to keep data safe. Online programs like Mozy or EVault back up information for a monthly fee of about $10 per employee.

Virus outbreaks continue to cause problems for companies. IT departments need to keep the virus protection software up-to-date. Gossage recommends trying programs such as Postini, which eliminates viruses from e-mails before they enter your inbox. Or application white listing gives the IT department the authority to approve programs before they are downloaded on employee computers.

Hackers are probably the hardest to prevent, since they are always discovering new ways to break into systems. Financial companies and e-commerce sites seem to be the main targets, according to Gossage. Oftentimes, companies don't realize when a hacker has gotten into their system. If an employee suspects a break-in, immediately take the website offline, contact the authorities, tell credit bureaus and customers and hire a security firm to examine the situation.

To prepare for possible hackers, Gossage suggests first encrypting important customer information. Another option is a service called McAfee Secure, which checks your site everyday for security vulnerability. The program costs about $1,700 a year, but searches for hacker loopholes to stop a breach.

"The good news is there is a lot of technology out there to help with these problems," says Gossage. "We can fight fire with fire."

For more information, visit www.inc.com.

NEED TO SAVE

The sluggish economy as well as not sticking to a budget could be to blame for a lack of savings among workers. Forty-seven percent of workers say, according to a survey by CareerBuilder.com that questioned more than 7,192 workers, they frequently live paycheck to paycheck in order to cover lifestyle expenses. This number is up from 43 percent in last year's survey.

Workers can't put money away for the future when it is a struggle to live between pay periods. Twenty-five percent of employees can't save any money per month, while 34 percent of respondents only put away $100 per month in savings. And one-third of workers aren't part of retirement plan programs like 401 (k) s or IRAs.

"Nearly two-thirds of workers say they have a set budget each pay period, although 19 percent admit to typically going over it," says Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources. "Just like in business, going over a budget can have negative consequences on the bottom line.

"Workers who are facing challenges in this area may want to reevaluate where their funds are being allocated, so they can identify opportunities to reprioritize, recoup savings and lighten their financial burden."

Haefner provides tips for workers to gain extra money:

— Contact a financial planner. A professional could provide additional areas for saving money.

— Use all the benefits presented to you. Meet with your human resource department to find out more about company wellness benefits or flexible spending accounts.

— Reconsider your mode of transportation. Commuting can be costly with the high gas prices. You may be able to take public transportation or ride with co-workers.

— Find out if your paychecks could increase. Talk to you boss and discuss higher earnings.

For more information, visit www.careerbuilder.com.

To find out more about Amy Winter and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2008 CREATORS SYNDICATE INC.