It is important to note that tools such as Google’s built-in factory reset are not the best choices for protecting your information and data, as even this setting can leave you exposed because a factory reset does not actually wipe away all of your data. However, there is no need to worry, because there are some ways you can protect your data and information before you sell your old smartphone.
Positive Of A Factory Reset
While a factory reset is not the ideal way to remove all of your information and data from your smartphone, there are some really good reasons to use this function. Whether it is to fix a bug that pops up after you load a system update, general maintenance in order to keep your smartphone performing at a high level, or starting fresh to remove programs or functions you do not use. However, in no way is wiping all of your data a function of this tool.
Sure, factory resets are often advertised as a clean-all that will delete all of your information, data, saved passwords, and content off of your phone. But, this is not entirely true.
Data Recovery
To prove this point, the security experts at Avast did an example where they bought 20 random phones off of eBay and using easily available recovery software were able to retrieve a generous amount of personal data off of the device. The information recovered included tens of thousands of photos, google searches, and emails – including a loan application. It is not fun to think of what could be done with this type of information if it was recovered by someone with less noble intentions than Avast.
No Reset Alone
If you are selling your smartphone and need to wipe out all of your data, a factory reset is a good start. But, putting your phone in the hands of an expert is the only way to make sure your data is actually wiped.
This post was written by Steven Elia Co-Founder and Recycling Director at eCycle Florida. eCycle Florida is a R2 Certified electronics recycling company in the state of Florida. Our processes and procedures are dedicated to the proper destruction and recycling of your electronics. ECycle Florida is your go-to for electronic recycling in Tampa.