Final answer:
Among the statements, c) storing the backup copy near to its original site is the best strategy is false since it poses a risk of both data sets being damaged by the same disaster. The correct backup strategy involves storing data in a separate location and confirming that the data can be restored effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has posed a question regarding the best practices for data backup and the statement which is false among the given options. The statement that is false is c) storing the backup copy near to its original site is the best strategy. This is misleading since if both the original data and the backup are in the same location, both could be affected by the same physical disaster such as fire, flood, or theft.
Best practices in data backup emphasize the importance of protecting critical data. As per statement a), the more important the data, the greater the need for backing it up, which is true. Vital data should be backed up more frequently and with greater care. Statement b), a backup is as useful as its associated restore strategy, is also true. Without a reliable method to restore data, a backup is pointless. A backup strategy must include tested restore procedures to ensure data can be recovered effectively.
Automated backups and scheduling, as indicated in statement d), automated backup and scheduling is preferred over manual operations, are the industry standard for reliable data protection. Automation reduces the risks associated with human error and ensures data backup processes are executed consistently as planned.