What is Data Destruction?

Published: December 23, 2020

You know the word ‘data’ means essentially anything that’s stored on your computer — data could be in the form of documents, apps, photos, emails, presentations, music, and just about any digital file. So, what is data destruction? 

Data destruction is the process of erasing those files from your computer to protect your privacy. Anyone can necessitate data destruction at any time. Fortunately, there are only a few times in your life when you may need to know what data destruction is and how it may apply to you. Read on to learn more!

When Do You Require the Data Destruction Process?

Now that you know what data destruction is, which is the process that removes, erases, sanitizes, and wipes your tech of any trace of existing data, here are a few situations when you may require the data destruction process. 

• You’re planning to recycle old tech such as a computer, smartphone, Mac, fax machine, camera, etc. Data destruction ultimately ensures that your private information can no longer be retrieved.
• Your company is planning to switch to new computers. This means a data destruction service will need to take on a job this large and assist your company in data erasure and recycling tech. 
• Data erasure is necessary to protect yourself from identity theft. 

What is data destruction in terms of planet-friendliness? It is a tool that is good for the environment. It’s better than crushing your hard drive when instead, you could recycle. Do something positive for the planet and hire a service provider for data erasure so you can recycle your tech.

Data Destruction and Hackers

Even if you think you’ve deleted files, they can still be retrieved by an experienced hacker. If you own a company, consider your clients and your reputation. You don’t want your company to be known as the company that was hacked. 

A data breach could destroy a business’s reputation. Personally, a data breach can be more than a headache. You could lose thousands of dollars and your entire identity.

What is a Data Destruction Service?

You likely don’t have the equipment or the know-how to DIY data erasure. So, what is data destruction as far as services go? A data destruction service is a professional service that erases data compliant with NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) guidelines. They guarantee your data is completely erased and issue you a certification. They are certified businesses, and they do the legwork for you.

Once you give these services your tech, it’s out of your hands. These businesses not only provide data elimination, but they also recycle your tech and find ways to reuse it. 

If they can refurbish your tech successfully, you may even get some money back in your pocket to go towards your new computer or phone. It’s a win-win situation for everyone, and you’ve done your part for the environment.

To find a good and reputable data destruction service, make sure the providers are certified and follow federal guidelines. Ensure they issue a complete data removal certificate and use hard drive destruction as a last resort—data erasure is the best choice, if necessary.

What is Data Destruction Benefits?

There are a few benefits to using data destruction services. You (and your clients) have peace of mind that there will be no breaches of data. This is especially important in terms of things like HIPAA privacy laws and other federal privacy laws. Your patients, clients, and customers trust you to keep their data secure. Data erasure promises that. 

Another benefit is that you’re deleting data in a lawful manner. You don’t want to be fined for not following compliant practices when it comes to data elimination. Why take the chance? 

It’s what’s best for the environment. Many computers, phones, scanners, and other tech can be recycled and reused once data is destroyed instead of tossing these items into a dangerous, overflowing landfill. 

Free up space for more data or convert to cloud-based storage. There are endless benefits to using professional data erasure specialists. 

For more information on certified data destruction and how to recycle your old tech, contact PlanITROI today.