Delete Your Data, Protect Your Identity
By To the Point
With so many anti-forensic tools and tricks out there, how can you be sure data is really deleted? While most people can delete a file, empty their recycle bin and uninstall programs – many don’t realize that the files they think are gone can be easily recovered with the use of ‘data carving’ tools. So, how can you permanently delete files? If you plan to sell or recycle a computer this is information you need to know.
In an article on csoonline.com, Corporate Investigations Manager Brandon Gregg lists the top three free programs you can access via the internet to ensure you are safe from the future users of your old computer. CCleaner, Eraser and Darik’s Boot and Nuke will each ensure that old files and information are gone for good.
CCleaner is a freeware program with multiple helpful tools. It can:
- Locate and remove unused files from your system, freeing up disk space and making your computer run faster.
- Permanently delete your internet history.
- Completely clean your registry using advanced features.
Eraser is a free and advanced open source security tool for Windows which allows you to completely remove sensitive data from your hard drive by overwriting it several times with carefully selected patterns. Additionally it can wipe your ‘empty’ hard drive space. With this program you can set up instant or regularly scheduled erases of individual files, folders and drives.
Derik’s Boot and Nuke, or DBAN is a self-contained boot disk that securely wipes the hard disks of most computers by automatically and completely deleting the contents of any hard disk it can detect. In his article Brandon warns, “Please do not use Boot and Nuke if you aren’t knowledgeable about computers; you can turn your computer into a brick.” Therefore we also do not recommend you use it without professional assistance unless you plan to recycle and never use the computer again.
Like any good habit, these and other system cleaning programs only work if you use them consistently. Additionally, don’t forget about your external hard drives, thumb drives, and other storage devices where you may keep sensitive information.
To read the article, “How to Protect Your Privacy from Computer Forensics”, click here.
