Make a backup you can actually find.

Understand what a backup is for

Get Cyber Safe describes cloud and external-storage options for preserving important files. Its guidance recommends protecting backups, separating storage appropriately and maintaining a backup routine. Its system-update guidance also highlights keeping device software current.

Reference: Get Cyber Safe — Storage and backup ↗.

Start with a harmless test file

Create a small note named “recovery practice” containing no personal information. Use your chosen provider’s documented process to back it up. Then find the copy and check that the note opens. This is a learning exercise, not a full recovery test for an entire device.

Write a recovery note, not a secret

Record where the backup is kept and which official instructions you followed. Do not include account credentials or recovery codes in the note. Store sensitive recovery material using the provider’s recommended approach.

Define what you have not checked

A copied file does not demonstrate that all data, all versions or an entire device can be restored. Review the coverage, retention and recovery options of your actual backup service. Our planner is a reminder tool; it does not perform a backup or scan your device.