How to Completely Erase Hard Drive Data Below are methods to erase hard drive data permanently to prevent identity theft or loss of intellectual property.  All methods are applicable to both personal and business.  We do however highly recommend going with DriveSavers to have your data securely erased forever. Formatting: This method is not fool-proof if a drive is just "formatted," however if you use a disk utility software to write a DOD (Department of Defense) 7 pass zero fill to the drive, then the at data will likely be rendered unrecoverable.  This method is very time consuming and not recommended if you are corporation, government, or educational facility doing multiple drives.  It could take you months to complete these tasks if you have hundreds of drives to wipe clean. Drilling or Torching: Physically taking a 3/8" metal drill bit about 10 times around the hard drive's platter will make data extremely hard (next to impossible) to recover.  Better yet, is using a torch (propane) to warp the platters will completely destroy data with no questions asked.  Both methods should be performed by an adult.  If using the torch method, having another adult around with a fire extinguisher available is a wise idea. Recommended:  DriveSavers Data Destruction Program Get it done professionally with DriveSavers Data Destruction Services. DriveSavers is know for their worldwide data recovery, however also is known for their mission critical data destruction (erasing) of highly classified and sensitive data on hard drives from the small business world to the high ranks of the government. DriveSavers only uses NSA/DOD approved equipment for erasing storage devices, and can provide high security for your peace of mind. You can learn more of how DriveSavers can meet your company (or personal) needs by contacting them today. Mention DS16416 for an added 10% off the order when you call them. DriveSavers Data Recovery, Inc. 400 Bel Marin Keys Boulevard Novato, California, USA 94949-5650 Toll Free: 800.440.1904 Bay Area: 415.382.2000 Fax: 415.883.0780