What’s Hiding on That Old Computer Could Cost You - Here’s How to Dispose of Tech Safely

When was the last time you tossed out an old computer, server, or smartphone from your office? Maybe it was collecting dust in the corner. Perhaps you upgraded a while ago and finally decided to get rid of the old hardware.

Did you know that the components used in technology equipment are not landfill-safe? On top of the environmental hazards, unprotected e-waste typically contains a lot of confidential and private information in the form of saved passwords, Internet history, and files left on the retired computer or server. 

Retiring old tech without taking the right precautions could expose your business to serious cybersecurity risks and violate compliance and privacy regulations. 

Important!  Remove and Destroy the Hard Drives.

Make sure to take the following #1 security precaution before you haul it off: Remove and destroy the hard drives. Use a third-party certified in data destruction and receive a Certificate of Destruction providing proof of compliance with industry standards (like HIPAA, GLBA, or SOX rules).

 The hard drive inside likely still contains:

• Saved passwords

• Financial records

• Customer information

• Emails, internal files, and more

That’s more than enough data to compromise your business. AND the risk of exposing sensitive data will result in a compliance violation.

Here’s What You Should Do Before Disposing of Any Device

If you're upgrading or offloading equipment, follow these best practices:

• Remove and destroy the hard drive.
  Before recycling or disposing of any device, remove the hard drive and have it destroyed by a certified third-party provider, and make sure you receive a Certificate of Destruction. This proves that your data was securely and permanently destroyed in compliance with regulations like HIPAA, GLBA, SOX, or FTC Safeguards. This protects your business from liability and ensures you meet your industry's compliance requirements.

• Think beyond computers.
  Mobile phones, printers, copy machines, and external drives, if a device stores company data, it needs to be handled with care.

If you're cleaning house or planning an upgrade, don’t put your business at risk.

👉 Have questions about cybersecurity or need help with hardware disposal?

Book a quick 10-minute call with our team here.

Teknologize is a SOC 2 Accredited, Professional Technology Services company with clients throughout the Pacific Northwest. We have offices located in:

• Tri-Cities, Washington 509.396.6640

• Yakima, Washington 509.396.6640

• Bend, Oregon 541.848.6072

• Seattle, Washington 206.743.0981

Questions about your IT or Cybersecurity? Give us a call today!