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Information Security Tips (July 2023) – How to Dispose Personal IT Device Securely

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When you are no longer using personal IT devices, such as a computer, smartphone, tablet or external storage device, it is important on how you dispose of it properly. This helps to protect your privacy and security, as well as the environment.

There are few steps you can dispose of your personal IT equipment securely:

  1. Back up your data:
    • Before disposing of your device, make sure to back up all your important data and files. You can use an external hard drive or cloud storage to store your data.
  2. Unsubscribe or unbundle accounts:
    • If there are any subscription services or bundled accounts, you should first unsubscribe or log out of all bundled accounts.
  3. Wipe content from your device:
    • Make sure to wipe your device clean before disposing of it. This means deleting all your personal data and files from the device.
  4. Remove SIM cards and memory cards:
    • If your device has a SIM card or memory card, make sure to remove them before disposing of the device.
  5. Destroy the device (if necessary):
    • If you have sensitive data on your device that you don’t want anyone else to access, you can destroy the device physically.
  6. Recycle the device:
    • Once you confirm your device is wiped, you can recycle it through your local recycling company or organization, such as Direcção dos Serviços de Protecção Ambiental (DSPA) in Macau, which is promoting Electronic and Electrical Equipment Recycling Programme.
  7. Don’t forget those household appliances:
    • Such as TV boxes, TVs or portable game consoles, etc., which may contain credit card and personal information,  make sure to handle them carefully.

No matter how you choose to dispose of your personal IT equipment, make sure to do so in a responsible way.

Reference:
Electronic and Electrical Equipment Recycling Programme (DSPA)
How to Properly Prepare Your PC for Disposal
How to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
Reset your Android device to factory settings