Ready to Dump that Old Computer, Phone or Tablet? Here’s How to Do it Safely

With Windows 10 reaching end-of-life soon, some users are having to upgrade old hardware that won’t support the requirements of Windows 11.

The question that often follows is: what do I do with the old hardware if we’re decommissioning it?

While we have relationships with certified e-waste recycling companies we trust in the area, we wipe all data from hard drives and other storage locations before handing any client hardware over for recycling.

For individual users, however, what follows is a list of tips for the safe recycling of electronic hardware we hope you’ll find useful.

Before you dump that device in a drawer or give it away, here’s how to safely dispose old devices and keep your info safe.

Safely Dispose Old Devices: Quick 5-Step Checklist

1. Back it up. Save anything you still need—photos, documents, the works.
2. Sign out of accounts. Remove Google, Apple, Microsoft and any other profiles. Be sure to log out of browsers with those accounts, too!
3. Factory reset.
   1. iPhone/iPad: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings
   2. Android: Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data
   3. Windows: Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Reset this PC → Remove everything (clean the drive)
   4. Mac: Use Disk Utility to erase, then reinstall macOS
4. Wipe USBs and external drives. Use secure erase tools (DBAN for HDDs, manufacturer tools for SSDs).
5. Physically destroy (if needed). Drill, crush or shred hard drives, SIM cards, and USBs if they held sensitive data.

Why It Matters?

You might think, “Who’d want my old stuff?” But to threat actors, your old devices are treasure chests of PII (Personally Identifiable Information) that can be used to steal your identity or compromise your business. Without taking the proper precautions, bad guys can find a wealth of crucial info on old devices, including:

• Saved passwords and logins (pro tip: don’t say yes to browser prompts offering to save your passwords!)
• Banking info
• Personal photos, emails and even embarrassing browser history
• Sensitive work documents

With just a little effort, data thieves or even someone at an e-waste site can access what’s left behind. For businesses, that means potential breaches, fines, and hard-to-answer questions.

The best e-waste companies get certified and are to adhere to a specified code of conduct, but do you trust someone you don’t know with such sensitive information?

What Devices Need to Be Wiped?

Any device that stores information becomes vulnerable to threats. Before you recycle check the following devices:

• Computers, laptops, hard drives, SSDs
• Phones, tablets, smartwatches
• Routers, printers, smart home devices
• USB drives, SD cards, CDs/DVDs

Even old printers and routers can hold sensitive data!

Step-by-Step: Safe Disposal for Every Device

• Computers & Laptops: Use built-in reset tools for a “deep clean.” For extra security, overwrite the drive using tools like DBAN (for HDDs) or manufacturer utilities (for SSDs).
• Phones & Tablets: Encrypt first (most modern devices do this by default). Factory reset, then remove SIM and SD cards.
• External Drives & USBs: Secure erase software is your friend. For high-security, physically destroy the storage chip.
• Printers, Routers, and IoT Devices: Find the “factory reset” option in settings. Remove any linked accounts.

When to Go Full “Office Space” on Your Hardware

If you’re handling business data, medical records, or anything you’d rather not see on the evening news, physical destruction is the gold standard. Shred, crush, or drill and make sure the storage chip is destroyed.

Recycle E-Waste Responsibly

After wiping or destroying your device, recycle it at a certified e-waste facility. Look for R2 or e-Stewards certification e-waste company to make sure your old tech doesn’t end up polluting someone else’s backyard.

Bonus: Smart Habits for Next Time

• Document your process (especially for businesses—hello, compliance!).
• Use professional data destruction services for big jobs.
• Stay updated on best practices—cybersecurity is always evolving.

Bottom line: Don’t let your old tech haunt you. Wipe it, destroy it if needed, recycle responsibly and move on with confidence.