Many of us no longer know friends’ and family members’ numbers. We program them into our phones and use speed dial. When a phone is lost, so are the numbers. And numbers aren’t the only important things on our phones. So precautions are necessary.

If you have a smartphone, you’re probably all set. You install some software and hook the phone up to your computer. The software synchronizes with Outlook or another information management program. And you can move pictures and other data to your computer.

Other phones are more difficult. You may be able to use Bluetooth to move data off the phone. That’s tedious, though. And both your phone and computer must have Bluetooth.

I prefer using backup software. I have a tip that lists several programs. Some include cables for connecting your phone to the PC. I also have a link to a free program that will back up some phones. You’ll need to buy a cable, though.

There are times when you want data to disappear. For instance, you should erase it before disposing of an old phone.