Security/FAQs

General Frequently Asked Questions

Will HomeDataGuard require me to install software on my computer?
No. Your HomeDataGuard Vault is online only. The subscriber can add digital files ("upload") and retrieve those files ("download") from www.homedataguard.com, but we do not require you to install any new software on your computer or schedule regular updates for backing up your entire computer. Our focus is to help you store and keep organized your most critical and cherished data in case of emergencies, disasters, travel, computer-crashes, external hard drive crashes, or other unexpected events.
Will I ever run out of storage space in my HomeDataGuard File Cabinet?
HomeDataGuard expands to meet your space needs, on demand. You might decide that a folder becomes too stuffed, or a drawer has too many folders, but that is more of an organizational decision than a storage space decision.
Can I share my account with someone else?
You may share your account with whomever you choose, by providing them with your username and password information. HomeDataGuard will not have access to your password and will never share your account information with another individual without your expressed written consent.
Hint: You might want to purchase a separate HomeDataGuard File Cabinet account to share information with colleagues, trusted advisors, clients, and family members.
What if the data I want to save is on paper? How do I convert it to a digital file?
Oftentimes, you can obtain a copy of a document in digital format from your CPA, your attorney, your insurance broker, your real estate agent, or other trusted advisors. We strongly recommend that you obtain copies of these documents, to keep them all in one organized safe digital file cabinet.
As you will note on other pages in this website, physical papers and photos can be converted into digital formats by using a scanner or even a fax machine. If you do not have one, you can either purchase one, borrow one, or take your documents to a local copy store for assistance. If you reside in regions where we offer HomeDataPro assistance, you can schedule an appointment to have a HomeDataPro come to your home to do all the scanning for you. You may also seek help from a Professional Home Organizer or an IT Specialist.
How do I retrieve my files from my HomeDataGuard Account when I need them?
HomeDataGuard.com is designed to allow you to quickly save any file in your HomeDataGuard File Cabinet to the computer you are using. Retrieve your files by clicking on the file and following the instructions to “Download.” To see a file with out downloading click on "View".
What happens to my data if I do not renew my subscription?
If your account is not renewed, the data in your HomeDataGuard Vault will be deleted off our system . We will do our best to provide you with sufficient notice, several weeks in advance of the expiration date, to give you the option of renewing your subscription.
At any given time during your subscription, you are free to download any or all of your files to your PC.
Can I throw away the originals of my important records once I store electronic copies in my File Cabinet?
We do not recommend that you throw away the original versions of your important documents. Your HomeDataGuard account should only be used to store copies of important records for you to use as a reference.
Electronic copies of some types of signed and notarized paper documents - such as wills, deeds, trusts, stock certificates, passports, and powers of attorney - do not carry the same legal effect as signed paper originals, which is why you should always keep and protect your signed original documents. However, electronic versions of other documents - such as brokerage and insurance statements - usually do have the same legal standing as their paper counterparts.

For photos and other memorabilia that are one-of-a-kind, the copy sitting on HomeDataGuard is like an insurance policy in case the original is lost, stolen or damaged.
Can I just store any sort of information, like basic information like my Pet ID?
Absolutely! We actually recommend getting started with something like Pet Identification or an Emergency Contact List. No matter how basic the information stored in your file cabinet, it is good to know that you have it when you need it most, and that you can always find it when you need it!

"Being a survivor of the Oakland Hills fires of 1991, all we had left were the clothes on our backs. It was nightmare having to recreate every piece of paper for the insurance companies. HomeDataGuard did not exist back then, but it does now. There isn’t a bank deposit box big enough to hold all of these valuable, irreplaceable personal documents. For the price of a monthly latté, be...

Cheryl Carroll

"The Online File Cabinet is just as intuitive and easy as my real file cabinet. The function buttons are obvious and clear. Adding and organizing files is a no-brainer!"

H. Briffel

My wife and I were on vacation when Katrina hit New Orleans. We were not allowed back into our City let alone our home. With no way of retrieving critical documents, our already distressing situation was compounded. We only wish that HomeDataGuard was available back then. Now we can leave and feel confident that we're covered with HomeDataGuard.com!

Dan and Margo

"I have always recommended that my clients have a plan in times of disaster. Claims go much smoother if all paperwork is in order. Home Data Guard has

the right idea for how to make peoples lives much easier in times of emergency"

John Altenbern

When we lost our home in the Witch Creek fires, one of the hardest things for me was not only the loss of my pictures, but my children's toothfairy notes (irreplaceable!). The HomeDataGuard File Cabinet is incredible...you can see and sense the item - a feeling like it's real when you look at it.

Lanee

In late October, 2007, I witnessed firsthand the total destruction of more than 300 homes in Rancho Bernardo. The Witch Creek fire swept through middle-class and upscale neighborhoods alike, choosing the homes it destroyed at random. Residents had little time to evacuate, and firefighters were overwhelmed.

Gary Tillinghast

"Just when I thought I was about to lose all my wedding photos on my computer, due to a virus. I found HomeDataGuard online and was able to instantly back up all of my memories fast and super easy. Thank you HomeDataGuard!"

Sandra G.