Computer Recycling
Personal computers (PCs) are becoming increasingly more important parts of our daily lives, however due to the constant development in technology and software they are becoming out of date quicker and quicker. Due to the introduction of the WEEE (waste electrical and electronic equipment) Directive in July 2007 all electrical items must now be recycled. This means you can now take your computer (along with any other electrical items that cannot be repaired) to your local community recycling centre for recycling.
Surrey Waste Management (who run the 15 community recycling centres (crc) on behalf of Surrey County Council,) takes the utmost care with all computer equipment on its sites and uses reputable companies to deal with all electronic waste. However, it is recommended that you wipe all of your personal data from your hard drive (central storage or core) before bringing the computer to your local site, to ensure you are completely happy that your details are safe.
There are several options for the best way to do this, including:
Disc wiping software
This is designed to erase valuable data although it must be used correctly. Some software programmes erase the entire disc, while others allow you to select which files or folders to delete. It is important that the software you use provides an option to erase free space (temporary files) as even deleted files that no longer show on your file lists can still be recovered.
Below is a list of Windows based software but alternatives are available for Mac or Linux.
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Product |
Web Site |
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Blancco Data Cleaner |
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Kill Disk |
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BC Wipe |
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Darik's Boot & Nuke |
Physical Destruction
Is a free alternative to the disc wiping software. However, many studies show that unless the hard drive is completely destroyed there is still the potential for information to remain stored. The preferred tools for destruction are a hammer or a drill, although the hard drive should be removed from the outer casing before you destroy it. It should also be noted that destroying a hard drive could release potentially toxic materials into the surrounding environment.
Degaussing
Is one of the most effective ways to eliminate valuable information due to the magnetic nature of the hard drive. Hand held degaussers are available but it is an expensive way to wipe just one PC. There are also companies that can professionally degauss hard drives, although again it is a relatively expensive process.
Please Note: The advice above is for guidance only, and if you are still unsure about removing personal data from your computer please seek the help of a computer or hardware professional.