When you delete a file on your computer do you consider it gone? If you answered yes, you’re not alone. So many people today think if they clear their computer history, delete files and cookies, and empty their recycle bins they have done enough to protect themselves and their personally identifiable information. While it’s a good start, it certainly isn’t enough to protect yourself from identity theft.
Deleting Your Information Doesn’t Remove it
When it comes to deleting your personal information, IT specialist Tony Lum says, “it’s like removing the table of contents from a book; the chapters (your computer files) are still there, they are just harder to find without the table of contents.” Essentially, when a file is deleted from your computer, you are only removing the indexing system that creates quick pathways to your data. Meaning that your data is still stored on the hard drive and even though the average person would find it hard to recover a file, anyone with any experience could easily locate it.
So it’s better to play it safe when it comes to properly deleting your personal information! Tony Lum says “the bottom line is, if you are really concerned about identity theft, then don’t give away your hard drive.” It’s recommended to physically destroy your hard drive. With a physically destroyed drive, no one will be able to access any information remaining on the drive. So don’t just delete; destroy! If you’re looking for local data destruction services, rely on the expert team at DataShield—serving Omaha and Iowa’s document and data destruction needs.
