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How To Securely Delete Your Data for Free

By Paul Lilly

The Recycle Bin is a terrible way to delete your incriminating files. We show you how to securely wipe your files and leave no trace.

Don’t think that just because you emptied your Recycle Bin that your data is gone forever and away from prying eyes. The only thing that gets erased when you “delete” a file in Windows is the information that tells your OS where to locate the document on the hard drive, and all any semi-savvy computer user needs to do to access those files is run one of the many available undelete utilities scattered all over the web.
 
To ensure your deleted data stays that way, download and install HandyBits File Shredder . File Shredder works its mojo by overwriting your deleted files with random bits of code, making it almost impossible – and at the very least, impractical – for data thieves to resurrect confidential files from their digital grave. We like File Shredder because it’s free and doesn’t try to upsell us on additional features. It doesn’t boast military grade algorithms like a handful of other data deletion utilities do, but it will overwrite files up to 15 times, which is more than enough to evade all but the most stringent (and expensive) data recovery tools your average hacker is likely to have in his virtual toolbox. And there’s no command line to muck around with – the intuitive interface is simple enough that even Aunt Mabel could shred secret recipes without asking for help. 


 
When you’re ready to shred, click on Select Files or Select Folder and navigate to the data you want to eradicate. If you prefer the Recycle Bin approach, click the Drag & Drop button to transform the UI into a square box, and then drag and dump your data, being extra careful not to accidentally delete a file you might later want back.