Don't Give Your Company Data Away.
Not long ago, a fellow small business owner had to send her laptop to the shop for repairs. Because it was her primary computer, she was concerned about her data and asked if she should somehow remove it first. Smart lady .
As more and more of our businesses become digitized, it's important that you keep your data close to you. It is definitely a good idea to clear your computer of all data before disposing or sending it anywhere for repairs.
The reasons are simple. You don't want people snooping in your files. It's an uncomfortable thought to have strangers looking through the information since your life is pretty much an open book on your computer. Any smart cookie can easily figure out important dates from photos and your lifestyle in general.
But besides that, what happens when the technician has no choice but to re-format the computer? Sure they will call you before going ahead but by then it would be a huge inconvenience to get your computer back to save your data. In some cases, it's not possible to retrieve your computer without additional costs. Removing or at least backing up your computer before sending it out saves you the heartache of possibly losing your files.
If you're disposing your computers, retrieve all your data. Then, have the hard drive re-formatted to erase any left over files.
Now that you've got the computer covered, what about your cell phone or mobile devices? These tiny devices can hold much more information than ever before. When recycling, giving away or donating your phone, don't give away your information with it too.
It's been reported many phones that are recycled still contain a lot of information. In many cases, you can still view photos, text messages, voice mail, voice notes, calendars, schedules and phone numbers.
So how do you remove that information while still doing your part for the environment? Often, a simple resetting of your cell phone will do. Check your phone manual to find out how to do this. Also, if you can remove the SIM card, do so. Lost your manual? Visit WirelessRecycling.com and get their Cell Phone Data Eraser. Just select your phone make and model, they'll return with a set of step-by-step instructions .
Updated on Wednesday, August 1, 2007
