What can be done to make sure no one can access information on a computer that I

1. 74

   javid1985posted 12 years ago

   What can be done to make sure no one can access information on a computer that I plan to discard.
   
   And why it is important to take such measures?

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2. 61

   duffsmomposted 12 years ago

   Remove the hard drive.  Information on a computer is never really deleted and a good hacker can recover passwords, credit card numbers.
   
   You can dismantle the computer for your own peace of mind.

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   1. 90

      Sherry Hewinsposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      I agree, it's both easier and more effective than trying to wipe the drive.

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   2. 81

      dailytop10posted 12 years agoin reply to this

      True.There are various recovery applications today that can restore deleted files from a hard drive in a matter of minutes so removing the device away from potential unauthorized access is the most effective approach.

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3. 78

   Hridyapal-Bhogalposted 12 years ago

   If 'duffsmom' reply is a bit too difficult for you to implement, then -
   
   Try a strong 'Shredder' software...This deletes the files completely without leaving any traces on the hard disks.

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4. 63

   gkerosiposted 12 years ago

   Before you discard your old computer, you need to wipe out all private information in it. Deleting is never enough. Some hacker using a data recovery software can access any data store in it.
   Formatting your PC is not enough. This is because formatting does not real delete data from the hard drive.
   You should carry out the following procedure:
   Clear you cache to ensure your credit card numbers are not stored there.There are other sensitive information that will expose your identity such as email ID passwords, your names and social security number. These should also be wiped from the computer.
   Start wiping data by saving it somewhere else. Then download a data wiping software. This software is free of charge.
   Reboot with Dban.
   Now your PC is ready to discard. Remember, if you are donating the PC it is a good idea to install some OS so that the new user can reboot the PC.

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5. 78

   Attikosposted 12 years ago

   What I do is remove the hard drive(s), take them to my workshop, lay them on a block of wood, and get down a heavy hammer. Once that disk is physically destroyed even the NSA would be hard pressed to put it back together again.

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