Be careful who you give your old PC to - Net.Matters - MSO.net's Monthly Newsletter - Aug 2006

Got a PC that you want to give away?  Ever wondered where they end up?  A BBC investigation (Real Story - transmitted on BBC1 14-Aug-2006) discovered that many second-hand computers from around the world ended up in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital.  It was then discovered that Nigerian fraudsters were able to find banking information on the hard disks of those PCs and sell that data for less than £20 each.

Whilst the programme didn't dispute that there is a market for these PCs, it worryingly highlighted the fact that many were supplying the information to enable identity fraud.  Since many PCs have arrived via UK council recycling points, people are being urged to wipe their hard disks completely.  Without addresses, bank details etc. left on the hard disk they are no longer vulnerable to fraudulent activity.

It's not just individuals who are being told to be vigilant.  Organisations have a duty under the Data Protection Act to ensure that our personal records are not recoverable in the event of equipment being disposed of.  If they no longer have a use for the information in their possession, companies must ensure its secure destruction.

If you need guidance how to delete your hard drive contact your PC/hard drive manufacturer and enquire about their recycling service or alternatively, use any number of the free drive cleaning software programs available on the web or email us here at info@mso.net.