Whenever you plan on getting rid of your old IT equipment, including your mobile devices, you need to ensure that all of your data will remain safe and confidential. This entails removing all of the data so no one else can gain access to it and use it against you in any way.
This is something that you need to consider when buying or building new equipment as well. You might build a computer from old parts, but find out that there is old data on it from the previous owner. If you want to learn how to build a computer of your own, then you should visit this link. However, you will need to make sure that you follow the steps listed below as well.
Continue reading for a few helpful tips that will assist you when it comes to recycling your old IT equipment and keeping your data safe.
Clear Data from Your Computer Equipment
Computer equipment could include your desktop or laptop, as well as your USB flash drives and any external hard drives that you use to store valuable data and work. Before you dispose of these items by giving them to a reputable recycling program, you need to make sure that you remove every piece of data on them.
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In order to ensure that your drives have been completely wiped clean of data, you should use a utility tool to overwrite each sector of a hard drive several times. You can find these tools surprisingly easily, and many of them are even free to use. But if you don’t feel comfortable or confident enough to do this yourself, you can certainly bring your computers and drives to a computer repair shop, pay a fee, and have the peace of mind that your data will be completely erased.
Clear Data from Your Mobile Devices
In the same way that you need to clear data from your computer equipment, you also need to do the same with your mobile devices prior to shipping them off to be recycled. Whether you’re getting rid of your old smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, iPod, or other gadget that contains personal information, you have a few options.
One option involves contacting your service provider or your device’s manufacturer in order to obtain the directions to completely remove the data from your device. Your service provider may even be able to perform this task for you from remote if you request it.
As another option, if your mobile device use a SIM card, simply remove it and store it safely, as this card has all of your data and you can actually use the same card in your next device if you wish.
Use a Reputable Recycling Program
Whether you’re planning on recycling your computer or your mobile device, make sure that you always do your research to choose a service that’s reputable and trustworthy.
You can use On Recycle to browse through various recycling programs and find the ones that will give you the most money for your device, such as your smartphone or your tablet. And you can find a recycler that will remove the data and provide you with added security for free or for a fee. Look for a professional recycling company that complies with WEEE legislation. The company should also be able to give you details regarding its Waste Carriers License.
With these handy tips in mind, you can recycle your old electronic devices without having to worry about your data being compromised in the process.