Secure erase

Secure erase overwrites or destroys stored data so it cannot be recovered, unlike a normal delete, which only hides the file until space is reused.

Secure erase: Secure erase permanently destroys data so that recovery tools cannot bring it back. An ordinary delete only removes the file's label while the content stays on the storage until it is overwritten. A secure erase overwrites the space or destroys the encryption key.

When you sell or give away a phone, laptop, pen drive or memory card, deleted photos, documents and chats may still be recovered by someone with free software. Buyers and repair shops have recovered private pictures and ID scans from devices whose owners thought they were wiped. Even a phone you think is broken can hold readable data, so wipe or destroy it before it goes to a scrap dealer.

On modern phones, a factory reset on an encrypted device is generally effective, but memory cards and pen drives need their own tool. Use a proper erase tool for computers and drives, and for sensitive files use a secure delete feature. Physical destruction is a good option for old cards and drives. Stolen identity details from old devices have been used for fresh loan and SIM frauds.

Tips

• Use a secure erase or full format with overwrite for memory cards and pen drives before giving them away.
• On computers, use the built-in reset with the option to clean the drive.
• Use Safeavio's secure delete for sensitive files you remove from the phone.

Related terms