What is Data Destruction?

From home, from the office, from your residence hall... computers allow people to access and use sensitive information in many ways.  Social Security numbers, bank account information, credit card numbers, and medical history can be very valuable information in someone else’s hands.

One of the most common ways sensitive information is breached is the result of computer users not properly disposing of data when they are finished using it (i.e. getting a new computer, records on CD).  Simply hitting the “delete” key does not completely remove the data from a hard drive and with the proper technique the data remnants can be easily retrieved.

Although multiple reports of sensitive information discovered on secondhand hard drives has increased awareness regarding data destruction, it remains a serious problem. 

In May 2009, a European research agency discovered launch procedures and blueprints for US military air defense systems on a hard drive sold on eBay. In addition they reported that out of 300 secondhand hard drives they examined, over one third contained personal sensitive information that should have been eliminated before being resold in the marketplace.

More information: U.S. missile defense information found in disk bought on eBay - SC Magazine, May 2009.

There are only two guaranteed ways to completely eliminate data from devices.  The first is to use special software to “wipe” or “sanitize” the device. The second is to physically destroy the device beyond reconstruction.

Why Recycle Computers and Their Accessories?

Do you have an old computer sitting in your closet or basement at home because you just did not know how to get rid of it?  Were you afraid to throw it out because you did your banking or office work from it?

Computers are not biodegradable and most electronic devices contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals.  The recycling process can help keep hazardous material out of landfills.

Our service will ensure data is securely removed from the machine, by one of the ways described above, and the device(s) are properly disposed. 

Our Service

The Information Security Office is now offering these services free of charge to all members of the BGSU community.  Anyone affiliated with BGSU can bring in their personally owned machine and accessories for secure data destruction and/or disposal.  Please refer to the additional pages on the left for more information.