Waste 2 Resources > E-Cycle Washington > Frequently Asked Questions > Data Security

Data Security

Are you worried about leaving data on your computer when donating or recycling it? It's up to you to remove any sensitive data from your computer before taking it to a collector.

The Washington Materials Management & Financing Authority and its collectors don't guarantee the security of confidential data stored in the electronic products they collect.

Simply formatting your drive or deleting files doesn't destroy data. Many software programs, though, can do this for you. TechSoup has articles explaining how to destroy your data:

• Avoid Data Theft: Clean Your Old Hard Drives
• Obliterate Your Hard Drive Data with Disk-Wiping Software

You can also visit the "Reusing Electronics" page on this website. This page includes information and links to resources that help consumers and businesses clear sensitive data from computers before donation.

Disclaimer
The Department of Ecology does not endorse any of these services or guarantee the quality of the service provided. There may be other services qualified to offer these services in addition to those listed.