Title: Proper Disposal of Electronic Devices | CISA
Headings: Security Tip (ST18-005)
Security Tip (ST18-005)
Proper Disposal of Electronic Devices
Why is it important to dispose of electronic devices safely?
What are some effective methods for removing data from your device?
How can you safely dispose of out-of-date electronic devices?
Authors
Please share your thoughts.

Content: Degaussers expose devices to strong magnetic fields that remove the data that is magnetically stored on traditional magnetic media. Solid-state destruction. The destruction of all data storage chip memory by crushing, shredding, or disintegration is called solid-state destruction. Solid-State Drives should be destroyed with devices that are specifically engineered for this purpose. CD and DVD destruction. Many office and home paper shredders can shred CDs and DVDs (be sure to check that the shredder you are using can shred CDs and DVDs before attempting this method). For more information, see the NIST Special Publication 800-88 Guidelines for Media Sanitization. How can you safely dispose of out-of-date electronic devices? Electronic waste (sometimes called e-waste) is a term used to describe electronics that are nearing the end of their useful life and are discarded, donated, or recycled. Although donating and recycling electronic devices conserves natural resources, you may still choose to dispose of e-waste by contacting your local landfill and requesting a designated e-waste drop off location.