Almost everyone has access to some electronic device, whether a mobile device like a smartphone or laptop, a recreational device such as a scooter, or a smart appliance. Approximately 70 percent of the world’s population owns a mobile phone, with over half having access to the mobile internet. Information is vital to communication and business and helps company leadership make informed decisions and companies to grow. Information technology (IT) is prevalent daily and contains significant data. Data security is crucial, and in a digital world, it is becoming more challenging to achieve. Still, IT asset disposition (ITAD) providers offer a range of solutions for end-of-use needs for retired IT assets.
The Evolution of Hackers
Traditionally, hacking was a way for people to show off programming skills when computers were used primarily at universities and labs. Once computers became more prevalent in the business world, cybercrime began to rise, sparking the need for cybersecurity. First came self-replicating malware, including worms, followed quickly by ransomware. Cybercrime has continued to evolve alongside technology and has become extremely difficult to detect in some cases. Phishing scams, one of the most popular data breach methods, consist of emails, phone calls, or text messages from reputable sources, such as banks, retail stores, or even transportation companies like USPS or Amazon, that ask users to confirm personal information. Links direct users to websites that appear authentic and are used to gain access to private accounts. This can be highly detrimental to businesses.
Data Destruction Ensures Data is Safe
Data security measures are critical for risk management in a digital world. Data breaches can severely damage a company’s reputation and result in legal repercussions and significant financial loss, potentially impacting customer trust and long-term business viability. The only way to ensure no data breaches occur is with data destruction. Completely erasing data from IT assets ensures no data can be leaked once devices are retired.
Data Security Solutions for Retired Assets with ITAD
A common fact most are unaware of is that data remains on a device until it is properly wiped. Many users believe a simple reset will erase all data from IT equipment, but this is not enough to protect data against hackers, and leaving IT assets anywhere with residual data still on the device puts enterprise and employee data at risk of data theft. ITAD providers offer data erasure services to ensure no data breaches occur even after disposition. 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.
In a world growing increasingly digital, data security should be a primary concern for every company. 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 all equipment is processed in full legislative compliance.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.