One of the primary reasons for data loss is device theft. Mobile devices, such as phones and tablets, are becoming increasingly small and are also easier to swipe or misplace. In 2023, approximately 1.4 million mobile phones were reported stolen across the United States. As a bigger issue than ransomware or even stolen credentials, device theft happens every day and may be the new cause of unnecessary device disposal.
Fear of Data Leaks Spurs Improper Disposal
Data erasure technology company Blancco recently released a report that gathered survey responses from cybersecurity and information technology groups. The report revealed that stolen devices and drives are the cause of 41 percent of data loss incidents, ranking as the third most common cause, after phishing and improper network configurations. This fear of device theft leading to data leaks often leads companies to throw away or destroy functional IT hardware rather than remarketing it for reuse. The fear of data leaks from data theft drives the premature destruction of assets that could be reused, contributing to the e-waste crisis and hindering circularity.
According to the Blancco report, 49 percent of devices from data centers are destroyed for privacy reasons, with almost 50 percent of these still being functional. While most data center devices are expected to last from 5 to 10 years, the average age is reduced to 4 years when devices are destroyed, and personal devices are reduced to 2 or 3 years before being destroyed.
“Improper data disposal is a hidden risk — and it’s not talked about enough,” said Blancco CEO, Lou DiFruscio. “Every business IT leader needs to understand their responsibilities, seek out the best practices that maintain compliance with data privacy regulations, and secure data at the finish line.”
ITAD Providers Ensure Data Security with Data Erasure
The report also showed that 17 percent of respondents had data leaks when their old devices were refurbished and reused without being properly wiped. This is what prompts many companies to destroy IT assets prematurely; however, ITAD providers like HOBI offer data security solutions via erasure services that completely wipe data before assets are refurbished or resold. HOBI’s internally developed data erasure tool, HOBI Shield, is just one of three data security steps we take to prevent data leaks. HOBI Shield completely wipes data from a device, and any hard drives that cannot be entirely erased are destroyed via shredding technology. ITAD providers also practice compliance in every step of disposition, providing a level of transparency and accountability when it comes to data security.
With more than 30 years of industry experience, HOBI is a leader in IT asset management and disposition. Our R2v2, RIOS, and ISO 14001 certifications ensure that all equipment is processed in full legislative compliance, and our data security practices extend beyond data protection. HOBI focuses on maximum value for our clients and the best action for the environment.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.