What happens to your electronic hardwares and devices when you no longer use them? Typically, most users end up tossing them down the rubbish chute, leaving them by the garbage collection area, or simply selling them to the nearest rag-and-bones man. However, shredding is actually the most secure and cost-effective way to dispose of all types of end-of-life data-carrying devices and items, from solid state drives to credit cards. The question remains — what is shredding, exactly, and why is it better to seek out shredding services in Singapore for your discarded devices?

What is Shredding?

Source: https://www.shrednations.com/2017/06/hard-drive-disposal-video/?cn-reloaded=1

Shredding is a process that completely destroys drive platters, mechanisms, and electronic components of a device, rendering the data within unrecoverable. This ensures that your data is permanently destroyed. The shredding machine has multiple cutting blades and will break down devices into small pieces, after which the technicians will sort and retrieve recyclable materials from the resulting debris. Shredding services in Singapore are primarily used by large corporations with huge amounts of e-waste, and by extension, lots of sensitive data to dispose of.

How Does Shredding Work?

Shredding differs depending on the type of device you’re planning to get rid of. However, using a hard drive as an example, shredding services in Singapore begin by removing the hard drive from its host device. Then, the HDD information, such as serial number, is captured, and the chain of custody documents are issued to facilitate asset write-offs. With permission in hand, the e-waste disposal company can then proceed to feed the hard drive into the shredder, which will slice and dice the device into small pieces. The shredded byproduct is then sorted for recyclable materials. Finally, a certificate of data destruction is issued as proof that the device and its data have been destroyed.

Why You Should Shred Your Devices

According to one report, over 360,000 files were found in just 85 discarded devices, and a large chunk of those files contained sensitive information like email addresses, dates of birth, and even credit card numbers. In short, devices, when improperly disposed of, can be a treasure trove of information for data thieves who regularly go through discarded devices. In a nation that relies heavily on data, insecure electronic waste disposal in Singapore can lead to sensitive data being retrieved to commit a variety of crimes, from credit card phishing, to identity theft. For businesses, data breach can potentially damage their reputation beyond repair.

When it comes to protecting personal data on your devices, simply deleting files or formatting drives isn’t enough. Whether you’re safeguarding credit card details or defending your organisation against cyber threats and data breaches, robust measures are essential.

For reliable handling and disposal of your devices and sensitive data, choose reputable companies offering certified shredding services in Singapore. At Metalo, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including shredding for various data-bearing devices, along with proper electronic waste disposal. Our operations are licensed by NEA, ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards that cover human health, environmental impact, quality assurance, and most importantly, data security.

For more information about our services, please visit our website.