set the automated backup location to a folder outside moodledata directory and execute automated_backups.php via cli. after backups completed verify files exist in backup location specified and that the backup report lists them as successfully backed up.

View course restore area for any course successfully backed up, there won't be an entry under the automated backup

Possible solutions:
1) Prompt on screen to check with site admin for backups in automated backup location other than those listed here
2) As automated backup completes add entries to course restore area. This way even if user does not have permissions to location they know there is a backup there and can provide name and date to site admin if backup is needed