Pull out the pin and stand back

It must be that time of year again. The evenings are getting lighter, the birds are singing and yet again a survey has found that many computer users are blissfully unaware of the need to securely erase data.

This time it was the University of Glamorgan, who purchased a selection of second hand computers via the internet and then examined them to see what was left. Many of the machines included sensitive data, and in several cases enough information was left over to allow a successful attack on the previous owner's systems. This is hardly reassuring.

Of course, it is not a new problem. It isn't just the sensitivity of the data that concerns business users, but also software licensing issues that affect disposal of computer equipment. In the UK the Data Protection Act imposes clear responsibilities to remove sensitive data, but so far few prosecutions have been pursued.

You must be a registered member to access this content.
Please Sign in below or Register now.
NOTE: This Feature is more than 7 days old.
Please login to view the rest of this article

Registered users may log in here.

Login or Register now and get unlimited access.


Why sign up?
  • Unlimited access to SC Magazine content as well as access to to our global resources from SC Magazine US and UK editions.
  • Full use of over 11,000 articles database covering breaking news, video interviews, case studies, research, product reviews and exclusive features with fast and intuitive filtering of results.
  • Personalised "Recommended for you" filters to ensure you have the most relevant content at your finger tips.
  • Daily security bulletin direct to your inbox covering the latest security news from Australia/NZ and around the world.

Register now, its free! We'll never sell your details to third parties and it helps SC Magazine to keep serving you quality stories.
Sign up to receive SC Magazine email newsletters
   FOLLOW US...
Most Read