There is a better way, and we can help!
By: Caren Cornett, Operations Manager
With the rapid pace of technology developments, it seems as though you just outfit your office with all new computers only to have them become outdated a few years later. So, it’s on to newer devices with all the latest advances to help your business grow. But then, what do you do with all that old equipment? Throw it away? Toss it in your recycling bin? Not disposing of your old electronics properly can have serious and sometimes, expensive, consequences.
The data on your e-waste can easily be compromised
The biggest thing you should consider is the data that is stored or saved on the device itself. From tiny sim cards found in a cell phone to the hard drive in a laptop or desktop, these contain your personal or business information that you don’t want to end up in the wrong hands! Simply erasing the files is just not enough. Deleting a file removes the references to the location, but the data remains on the media. You need to ensure that all data cannot be recovered. There are two methods to permanently remove the data from your drives, Degaussing and Secure Wipe.
Degaussing
If the hard drive is a spinning drive, degaussing is the most effective way to permanently remove the data. A degaussing machine uses a powerful magnetic force that absolutely removes all data and leaves the drive unusable. Degaussing meets the most stringent media clearing standards set by the US Department of Defense.
Secure Wipe
If your data is stored on Solid State Drives, a different method of eliminating data must be used. While typical file shredding or wiping software may delete some data, remnant data may remain. Secure wiping erases data and folders permanently and is certified by most regulatory bodies, including Common Criteria.
Both methods are fast, safe and reliable, and both are offered by On Line Support for our clients. Our secure media destruction service includes:
- Permanent erasure of all data from your media
- Environmentally friendly recycling and disposal
- Media destruction report and Certificate of Erasure for your compliance and audit records
E-Waste is harmful to the environment
When electronic waste is thrown away in landfills their toxic materials seep into the groundwater or if incinerated, the toxic chemicals are released into the air. In 2019 49.8 million tons of e-waste was created, but only 15 – 20% was recycled and safely disposed of.
On Line Support can assist you in responsibly disposing of most of your businesses electronic waste. If you’re relocating your offices or have a pile of unused equipment laying around, give us a call and we will assist you. We provide the most environmentally responsible methods of recycling currently available.
