How to Destroy The Data On a Physically Broken Hard Drive

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By desolator144
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So your hard drive failed and all your data is left on it but you can't erase it because duh, it doesn't work! Well, there's a simple, safe way to make sure nobody gets their hands on your data!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

I'll assume since your hard drive is broke, you took it out of your computer and put in a new one. If you didn't do that, do it. I'll also assume you already tried to have a professional get the data off and it failed because if they could get the data off, they could also wipe it and then you wouldn't be here reading this.
Step 2

No matter if it's a laptop or PC hard drive, it should have at least 6 screws holding the top plate on. One may be hidden under the stuck on label too so don't miss that one. Take all the screws out so that you can take the top cover off. They usually have a weird star shaped socket instead of the standard Phillips headed screws used elsewhere on the computer. Luckily hardware stores sell bits that shape so go get a socketed screwdriver with a set of all different bits, including some really small 6 pointed star ones. One of them should fit and you'll have the screws out in no time.
Step 3

Once all the screws have been removed, the cover should come off with a slight bit of force. There should be a rubber-like seal keeping it airtight and it sticks a little but if you got every screw, you should be able to pull it off with your hand or at least remove it by prying with a flathead screwdriver.
Step 4

When the airtight seal is broken, the data is immediately all but unreadable. Any particles in the air that land on the platter (the shiny disk that holds all the data) make it pretty much unreadable. Technically with enough effort it may be able to be cleaned and then read by a special device but it's unlikely. That's why you should remove the platter from the axle (should be three more star screws) and use it as a super high definition mirror instead of just tossing it out. You could also get out the sandpaper or smash it with a hammer but it may contain toxins so that's not such a good idea. Plus, it's such a great mirror!

Comments

williamfjordan said

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on 2/24/2009 nice tip for sensitive data destruction ... 5*

QueenofMisc said

on 1/21/2009 Hummm. Hadn't thought about the possibility of toxins. Good info. Thanks.

on 1/20/2009 There's always thermite :P lol Good luck getting data after the platter's have been incinerated! But yeah you are right, there may be toxins that you might not want to inhale. The hammer and/or other power tools work well thou! Systm did a podcast on how to destroy a hard drive which was entertaining :).. I can't remember the episode # right now thou :( lol

ScarlettOHairy said

on 1/1/2009 Good information and tips on destroying the bad boy when it's gone bad. I like the Comments from Alrady on using it as a mirror to deflect birds. Recycling as well as personal data safety.