Data Destruction 101: Essential Tips
Best Practices for Data Destruction
Data destruction is the process of overwriting or completely eliminating data from a hard drive or other electronic storage device.
When recycling or disposing of old electronics, removing your private data is a critical step. Proper data destruction practices ensure that you’ve removed sensitive personal information that could be used against you.
Data Destruction and Electronics Recyling
Homes and workplaces use an ever-increasing number of internet-connected devices. The more electronics we purchase, the more old electronics we need to dispose of.
When it’s time to move on from an old computer, phone, or other device, it might be nice if you could simply toss it in the trash can. However, doing so would put your private data at risk, prevent recycling of useful materials, and illegally pollute the environment with toxic waste.
To move on from an unwanted device, always first destroy your data. Then, recycle the hardware.
Data destruction takes a bit of effort, but it’s worth it to know that your personal or professional data doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. To ensure proper data destruction results, follow these tips.
Back Up Important Files
Transfer important files to a cloud server or a flash drive. Preserve everything you might want to keep before destroying the original storage locations.
Don’t Just Empty the Trash Bin
Emptying your computer’s trash bin makes data hard to recover, but not impossible. Someone with special skills or illicit information could still access files that you thought were completely eliminated.
Read Up on Data Destruction Policies if You Are Destroying a Business Device
Some industries are subject to data destruction regulations. Research the federal and state laws to learn what you can destroy, what you cannot destroy, and what the destruction process needs to consist of.
Completely Clear Your Hard Drive
As we said above, simply emptying out the trash bin on your Microsoft or Apple device will not sufficiently clear your personal data from your hard drive. It is important to follow the proper procedures to ensure that the hard drive has been wiped clean.
However, this is not always as easy as a few clicks. Even if you think you might have destroyed your personal data, it is still wise to have the hard drive professionally examined to ensure that the disk is clean and no longer contains any lingering files.
Work With a Computer Repair Specialist
If you plan on giving away or selling your computer, first take it to a professional computer service. An experienced technician can ensure that your personal data is completely cleared from the device so that it can be safely resold or gifted.
Once your device is wiped clean of private data, you can safely hand it over to a new owner.
Safely Recycle Old Electronics
To safely dispose of old electronics, work with a company that specializes in e-waste and data destruction.
ProTek Recyling is a fully insured and registered electronic waste collection and recycling firm. We’re also a licensed New York State document destruction contractor. We serve businesses, governments, schools, and individuals in New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
When you dispose of an old device, you shouldn’t have any doubts about data security. For your peace of mind, we offer 100 percent guaranteed data destruction.
We shred hard drives, cell phones, and other data-containing devices. You’ll know the job was done right when you receive our certificate of destruction that details the destruction of data from each device.
With ProTek Recyling, your data is securely destroyed and your devices are safely recycled. We have a zero landfill policy and never ship electronics overseas. All types of hardware can be recycled. We make it easy for you to help your old electronic parts find new useful life.
For your data destruction and electronics recycling needs, contact us online today to learn more.