Discarding Your Old Technology Could Put Your Data at Risk

Got a new computer for the holidays? That’s awesome! But before you get too excited, let’s talk about your old device. You can’t just toss it out—there’s a right way to get rid of it that keeps your personal info safe and the environment happy. In today’s blog, we discuss what to do with your old computer.

Protecting Your Data

Think about all the stuff your computer knows about you—photos, passwords, messages, and more. Even if you don’t use it much, there’s probably a lot of personal info stored on it. Before you get rid of your old device, back up anything you still need and wipe it clean. A factory reset might seem like enough, but it often isn’t. There are tools out there that can completely erase your data so no one else can recover it later. If you’re not sure how to do this, reach out to someone who can help.

Broken Doesn’t Mean Safe

Even if your computer doesn’t turn on anymore, don’t assume it’s safe to throw away. Most of the time, the parts that store your data—like the hard drive—are still working, even if the rest of the computer isn’t. That means someone could still access your info if they wanted to. Before recycling or trashing a broken device, make sure all your data is wiped.

Giving Your Device a Second Life

If your old computer still works, why not find a way to reuse it? You could give it to a family member, a friend, or someone in need. Just make sure it’s completely wiped first. Another fun idea? Turn it into something new, like a digital photo frame or a second screen for your home setup.

Recycling the Right Way

If your device can’t be reused, recycling is the way to go. But be careful—some recyclers don’t actually recycle responsibly. Instead, they might dump old devices in landfills overseas, which can harm the environment and local communities. To avoid this, work with a recycler that has a good reputation for ethical and environmentally friendly practices.

Whether you want to safely recycle or reuse your old tech, we’re here to help. Reach out to us at (240) 226-7055, and we’ll make sure your data stays safe and your device gets a second life—or a proper goodbye.