As more and more information is stored on computers and online, companies are becoming aware of the importance of data security. While this includes safety precautions such as putting firewalls in place and other security measures, data destruction should also be considered when thinking about security. Data destruction refers to the destruction of old electronic hardware that still has valuable information stored on it. This is because even if data is deleted from a computer, the information is always stored on the hard drive. Therefore, the data is unprotected if it gets into the wrong hands. To avoid this, more and more companies are mandating that a data destruction policy be put into place to protect their business. Here is what you should look for in creating a data destruction policy.
In the data destruction policy, there should be clear guidelines and steps to follow when any piece of a hard drive is going to be disposed of. The plan will state the decided upon means of data destruction. This is because there are a variety of ways to destroy data. While there are many different ways, such as using encryption to write over data, for example, the securest way to get rid of data is through the physical destruction of the electronic hardware. Once the approved methods of data destruction are chosen, the policy will then include further instructions on what employees should do to complete the data destruction process. Another way to create the procedure is by determining which methods will be used for what piece of equipment. For example, your company may choose to use different methods for various products such as CDs, laser disks, USB storage devices, or hard drives to name a few. Other information that can be added to the policy includes “how to” information and various company resources that employees can take advantage of if need be.
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