What should be done before disposing of an old computer?

Before disposing of an old computer, it is crucial to ensure that all data is securely wiped or destroyed. This step is essential because computers often contain sensitive personal information, financial records, or other confidential data that, if not properly handled, could be accessed by unauthorized individuals. Simply deleting files does not fully remove the data, as recovery tools can often retrieve deleted information.

By securely wiping or destroying the data, you protect your privacy and reduce the risk of identity theft or data breaches. This can involve using specialized software that overwrites existing data or physically destroying the hard drive, ensuring that sensitive information cannot be recovered. Taking these measures demonstrates a responsible approach to data security when disposing of old technology.