Back up software and devices, such as external hard drives and portable flash drives have made backing up your data more streamlined, simple, and convenient than ever, so why in the world would someone who has definitive research on the cure for prostate cancer not back up their computer?  All I can say is that its proof that making really stupid mistakes is not reserved only for those with low IQs.

Sook Shin, a researcher at Oklahoma University recently had her laptop stolen, which contained years of research, and critical data on a possible cure for prostate cancer.  Sadly, Shin did not back up her data and has sated that some of the data would take up to 2 years to replicate. Both Shin and her husband Ralf Jankecht are leading cancer researchers at Oklahoma University where Jankecht is a professor of cell biology.

The couple are offering a $1000 reward for the return of the laptop, and promise that it will be a ‘no questions asked’ scenario.  They are primarily interested in recovering their data, and are not concerned about punishing the culprit.

Not to be an ‘I told you so’, but this is the type of disastrous situation that is completely preventable with a convenient portable back up device, which even for the highest quality devices will cost you under $200.  Portable external hard drives or even flash drives can handle the job of backing up your precious data for work or home, and can save you tears, heartache and frustration down the road should something happen to your computer.  Devices are available for both laptops and desktop computers.

If you are currently not using a back up system for your work data, digital pictures, financial or important documents, I’m sure this horrific story that actually could dramatically impact mankind will awaken you to the dangers of ignoring the crucial and simple back up process.

Source:  Cnet