Remove Data Before Disposing of Your Old Device

Before you recycle, donate, or trade in an old computer or mobile device, it’s important to remove your personal information. Devices store sensitive data - including passwords, financial details, photos, emails, and browsing history - which could be recovered if not properly erased.

Properly wiping your device ensures your personal and financial data stays protected - even after the device leaves your hands.

Back Up Your Information

Save important files - photos, videos, documents, contacts - before wiping your device.

You can back up to:

• Your new computer or device
• An external hard drive
• A cloud storage service (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, etc.)

Tip: Choose cloud providers that support Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) for added security.

Erase Your Hard Drive the Right Way

Simply deleting files or emptying the recycle bin does not permanently remove data. Additional steps are needed to ensure it cannot be recovered.

Computers

• Use reputable disk cleaning tools (e.g., Secure Erase, Disk Wiping software) to permanently remove stored data.
• After wiping the drive, perform a factory reset through your system settings.

Mobile Devices (smartphones, tablets, cameras, media players, gaming consoles)

• Perform a factory reset (hard reset) from the device’s settings menu.
• Remove any additional memory cards (SD cards) before recycling or donating.

Office Equipment (printers, copiers, fax machines)

• Remove memory cards or storage components if present.
• Restore the machine to factory default settings.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from scammers. Although no form of fraud protection is absolute, a combination of personal awareness and protective tools will make you as safe as possible.

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