Data loss is an error condition in information systems. This can occurs when valuable and sensitive information on a computer is compromised due to theft, human error, viruses, malware, or power failure.
Data loss is an event that can occur with any computer user irrespective of the Operating System (OS) .Linux users also face data loss when they modify, save, or create data in their system. Some of the common causes that result in data loss on Linux systems are:
1.Accidental Deletion of Data:
Accidental deletion of data is one of the common reasons of data loss from any OS based computer. Accidental deletion may include removing the files thinking that they are backed up or unimportant, and lacking the understanding of basic computer operations. Unplanned formatting of Linux based hard drives also comes under this section of data loss.
2.Virus Infection:
Virus infection is another cause of data loss on Linux based hard drives.The virus infection occurs when you download a piece of information from a compromised websites or other such sources like emails that contain malicious attachments.
3.Sudden Power Loss:
Unexpected shutdown of computer may cause corruption of file system and hence data loss.
4.Bad Sectors on Hard Drive:
Bad blocks on your hard drive are another reason for data loss.
5.Hardware Related Issues:
Physical damage to hard drive or any of its components results in data loss. This at times results in 'Total system failure'. It occurs when your hard drive is dropped or kicked.
6.File System Corruptions:
Corruption of file system of your hard drive that occur due to various incidents are some other possible issues of data loss from Linux based hard drive.
7.Incompatible Installed Applications:
Various installed applications are responsible for creating issues with hard drive, and hence causing data loss. These conflicting applications result in operating system crash. For example, a malware or a conflicting application that corrupts MS Word results in the loss of all the files saved with this program.
8.Hard Drive having Low Disk Space:
When you try to save files on a hard drive having low disk space, you face data loss.These are some of the common causes of data loss from computers having Linux as Operating System. However, if in such situations, you follow certain precautions, then you can avoid data loss.
9.Maintain Backup of Your Data:
Maintaining backup of your data is one of the best way to prevent data loss. The basic meaning of backup is you are keeping at least one copy of your data. It is recommended not to take the backup on the same disk.
10.Use UPS:
To avoid data loss caused due to interrupted power supply, it is suggested to use UPS. It gives you sufficient time to save your work and shut down your system properly.
11.Keep Your System Protected with Updated Anti-Virus Software:
The best way to prevent data loss caused due to virus infection is with the help of a professional anti-virus software that has definitions for all latest viruses.
12.Perform Disk Maintenance Activities:
It is suggested to practice disk maintenance like disk defragmentation.
13. Keep application up-to-date:
If you are using outdated application, the spammer or hackers can easy access your account through a vulnerability in one of the applications installed on your account and they can upload malicious scripts into your account. You can prevent from getting hacked by update your applications. So update those outdated installations to its latest version.
