Prevent tech horrors this Halloween

Technology

Prevent tech horrors this Halloween

October means Halloween, a time for scares and horror – but one horror you don’t want is for something to happen to your precious hardware or your precious data. Unfortunately computers, tablets and phones are a lot easier to destroy than zombies or vampires, so it’s wise to take some precautions. One of the simplest things you can do to protect your hardware is to put it in a case. It’s not something you really need to do with a laptop, but it’s a very sensible move for smartphones and tablets because they’re mobile devices that are much more likely to be dropped. You can also get cases for smartwatches. If we’re honest they’re not exactly pretty, but neither is the £286 we were quoted to repair the smashed glass on our Apple Watch. For watches and phones, you can get goodquality screen protectors for less than £10 that will absorb most impacts and usually leave the screen undamaged. For extra peace of mind, consider gadget insurance. Your home insurance may well cover gadgets already but the excesses are usually high, so if you’re worried about regularly having to replace smashed screens it can be a worthwhile investment. Multi-device policies start at under £10 per month, rising to about £17 for policies that cover an entire household. Hardware isn’t the only thing you should consider protecting. Think about all those priceless and irreplaceable photos you’ve taken and videos you’ve shot. Unfortunately computer storage can and does break, and of course devices can be stolen. That’s why it’s really important to have multiple copies of anything important like precious family photos. For copying large libraries, such as years of family photos, an external hard disk is a relatively cheap way to do it; you might also like to try online storage services like Microsoft OneDrive or Google Drive. The more it matters to you, the more copies you should have of it.

Western Digital My Passport external hard disk

WD’s excellent external disks aren’t just fast with lots of storage space. They come in designs that are much more interesting than your average external drive. From £42 from Westerndigital.com

Native Union CLIC Leather Case for iPhone

Fancy something premium that’s a bit different from Apple’s own cases? The CLIC offers stylish design in genuine leather and a range of attractive colours. £49.95 from Apple.com

John Lewis and partners recycled leather tablet sleeve

This simple, stylish and environmentally friendly sleeve from John Lewis is made by processing leather that would have otherwise gone to waste. £18 from John Lewis

Casetify Apple Watch Case

With screen replacements costing almost as much as the entire watch, it’s wise to protect your Apple Watch with an inexpensive but effective wrap-around case. £12 from Casetify.com

Bam Bino Space Suit

This rugged iPad case for kids isn’t just cute; with a shoulder strap, screen protector and rugged plastic bumpers it’s convenient, kid-friendly and extremely tough. £19.95 from Amazon