How to Prevent CD Duplication

Destroying a CD is one way to ensure no one can copy your information.

It's simple to throw a CD into the garbage and forget it ever existed. However, if someone gets hold of your disc, it is possible for that person to copy vital information that was stored on it. You can prevent unwanted cloning or copying of your disc files by taking extra cautionary steps to ensure that the disc is gone forever.

Things You'll Need

• Microwave (optional)
• Knife or sharp object
• Scissors
• Torch
• Sand paper

Instructions

1. Place the disc in the microwave for three seconds. Spiderweb pattern cracks will destroy data found on the disc and render the disc completely unreadable. Do not microwave the disc for longer periods of time because it can possibly damage your microwave.

2. Cut the disc into two pieces using a pair of scissors or a knife. Cut the disk into smaller pieces to make the data completely unreadable if you are especially worried about someone copying your vital information.

3. Scratch the CD's entire reflective layer off with a sharp object to remove its data layer. Use sand paper to significantly scratch both sides of the disk if you are worried that someone could still copy your data. Another solution is to place it on concrete and rub it back and forth with your foot.

4. Torch your CD with a butane torch or equivalent. Torching the CD is an extremely effective method of warping and destroying the entire CD. Place the CD far away from people and flammable objects.

Tips & Warnings

• Take extra precaution when handling sharp objects. You can cut yourself if you're not careful. Also, put out fires created by the torch and do not get burned in the process.

References

• Peachpit Press: How to Destroy CD-R
• Stason: How do I destroy CD-R media beyond all hope of recovery