How to Remove Private Data From a Hard Drive

Data that is deleted from a computer is not always lost. Data is recoverable until the computer overwrites such data with new data. This is great for those who wish to recover accidentally deleted data and those who conduct computer forensics. However, scavengers often search through old computers for private data that can be used to conduct identity theft. Fortunately, programs are available that will overwrite data on a computer, making the data permanently unrecoverable.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Download Eraser and install this program to your computer (see Resources).

2. Choose a part of your computer that you would like to permanently wipe out.

3. Add the portion of the computer that you would like wiped out to the task manager.

4. Close all programs and terminate processes.

5. Find the drop-down menu labeled "task." Select "run all." All files will be deleted and overwritten with random data.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to save all precious data to a zip drive, flash drive or another computer. If you are still using this program, transfer it from your data storage device to your hard drive.
• You will never be able to recover this data again. Once you have used the data wiping device, be sure to delete it in order to prevent unintentionally wiping your hard drive.

Resources

• Download Eraser