As companies and end-users increasingly rely on electronic data storage, we must all consider what happens to that data when the storage device is no longer functional. We are constantly reminded of the importance of recycling. And while many of us do recycle electronic or computer equipment, what is not being highlighted enough is that when it comes to the destruction of any storage media deleting all their files, re-installing the operating system or formatting the drive is never enough. The data will probably reside on the disk, typically in un-allocated space and it could be used maliciously in the wrong hands. Discarding computer equipment without due care could lead to irreparable, financial, political and personal damage to the owner or organisation. Can you afford to take such risks?

Hard drive destruction is the only way to completely protect data. We provide a secure and guaranteed data destruction service by magnetically disabling the data on the drive and physically destroying them afterwards.

Why should you care?

The Data Protection Act places direct personal responsibility on companies to ensure the proper destruction of data. Under the Act the responsibility for data destruction falls with the Data Controller, defined as the entity “who decides how and why personal data is processed” and their “duties extend to the way you dispose of personal data when you no longer need to keep it – you must dispose of the data securely and in a way which does not prejudice the interests of the individuals concerned.”

The WEEE Directive state that all IT equipment and other electrical items must be recycled in line with the specified standards and that companies may be prosecuted for failing to comply with the regulations.