OMG, Where is Your Data???

Good Afternoon folks!

I must apologize for my delay in getting today’s post out, I ran into some writer’s block this morning, and I had to take care of some items at work that were quite pressing.  So, do you know where your data is?

That is a broad question isn’t it?

We all must answer the question with a very simple “no!”  Today’s post is on the destruction of data.  When we are done with our computers, what is done with it?  Do you throw it away? Do you pass it down to the kiddos?  The reason I ask these crazy questions is to demonstrate that you have no idea where your data is!

“What am I supposed to do with my computers when I am done with it then?”  I am glad you asked!

If you are planning on recycling the computer to let your kids use it, simply find your “recovery” disc, blow all the dust off of it, and wipe out all of the data from your computer, and start over.  If you want to truly get rid of the data, you can download a free tool from www.diskwipe.org that will zero out your hard drive.  Zero out?  So, you have heard that all data is simply 1’s and 0’s right?  When you “zero out” a hard drive, it turns every 1 into a 0 on the disk.  This is the only way to make your data go completely away… not even someone with computer forensic tools can retrieve it!  Once this is done, you can install a new version of Windows, and give your kids a clean, virus free, and personal data free, computer!

When computers become obsolete, and people decide to get new ones, they often times throw their old computers out… eventually!  The data stored on that old computer is still there, and if you toss out the computer, then someone could steal your information.  Your personal information doesn’t have an expiration date.  So, if you are looking to throw out an old computer, use the wipe tool before you throw it out!  Another option is to take your hard drive to the shooting range, (get permission first, or go to a friend’s field) and get some target practice with the drive!  One more option, one for those who have some built up frustration, take your hard drive out to the garage, take out a hammer, and beat the drive into a thousand little pieces.  It would be wise to wear safety glasses if you are doing this!

Ladies and Gentlemen, have a great remainder of the day, and remember:

Protect your information, protect yourself; Coffee is brewing people, it is time to wake up!!!