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Lee Koo
Community manager |
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Getting rid of old computer; what should I do before proceeding?
Dear CNET members,
Happy Friday! Are you ready to recycle your ancient desktop? You might be afraid to do so because it contains sensitive personal information and you don't want your data to be compromised. Well, I'm sure you're not alone.
For many of you this is a no-brainer. You know how to wipe and destroy the data on your hard drive, whether it is done physically or via software. But some people like Shirley are "not yet" as technically savvy, or even recognize what a hard drive does or looks like within the computer's case. So, let's unravel this mystery through your solutions, and next time around, everyone will know exactly what to do.
Note that given Shirley's question, she doesn't seem to be interested in saving her hard drive for reuse or donation. Some members did advise to use software to cleanse it. Most gave the solution of how to identify the hard drive inside the computer case (see Wikipedia on hard drive) and uninstall it from the case, plus different methods to physically destroy it. And remember, having your computer case open is a great opportunity to look inside and learn something about your computer hardware. And if you are not a person who wants to get physical with the computer or hard drive, it is good to know that members did also suggest using a professional service that will help you do the dirty deed for a small fee. The choice is yours, but for me a drill, a hammer, and a bit of sweat can be therapeutic!
Thanks for your contribution to Shirley's question. If you have additional suggestions, let's hear them. Have a great weekend, folks!
Cheers!
-Lee
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Got suggestions? Send me an e-mail: messageboards@cnet.com |
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TOPIC OF THE WEEK |
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Q: Getting rid of old computer; what should I do before proceeding?
Hello, everyone, I had an old Windows desktop computer given
to me by my son when he got his Apple and now I have upgraded
to a HP laptop. My question is how do I destroy all the
personal information on the old desktop, including all bank
details? I got rid of the keyboard, speakers, etc., but I
still have the main box that holds all the info. I am scared
to throw it out, and it has been sitting in the corner of the
room for nearly three years and is an eyesore. What are my
options--as to what do I need to do specifically? A detailed
explanation and step-by-step procedures are needed. Please
help me; I would be ever so grateful. Many thanks.
-- Submitted by: Shirley H..
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 A: Featured member solutions |
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Thanks to all who contributed! |
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NEXT WEEK'S QUESTION
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Q: Privacy concerns over browser cookies in my system
With all the concerns about privacy that have been in the news lately, it occurred to me that I have literally hundreds of cookies on my desktop and laptop computers with no way of knowing where they came from, or any idea what purpose they serve. Is there a program that will list the file names of the cookies, show the Web sites they originated from, and describe their function? I suspect I have at least a few I would prefer to get rid of. Maybe an overall lesson on what browser cookies are, the purpose they serve, and if they are dangerous or not? Thanks.
-- Submitted by: Don S. in Alabama
If you have an answer to this question, click here and click the "reply" to submit your advice, suggestions, opinions, or tips.
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