Secure Hard Disk Wiping & Disposal
A study by researchers from the University of Glamorgan and BT, resulted in several alarming privacy headlines in the media today - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8036324.stm The study involved the purchasing of old computer equipment from trade fairs and online auctions from the UK, US, Germany, France and Australia, and the recovery of data from these purchased items. The researchers were able recover a raft of personal and sensitive data from hard disks, including detailed medical records from a Scottish NHS Trust, military secrets, business financial transactions and an variety of personal information, which included bank details, and the sorts of things identity thieves crave. The study concluded around 40% to 50% of the second hand hard disk drives they randomly purchased held sensitive data which could be recovered by pretty much anyone with half a brain. I have to say, I am not surprised by this study’s outcome, which highlights the problem of hard disk disposal by both ...