Data Security

The need for data security affects all organizations. Technology allows us to collect, store and transfer vast amounts of personal and identifying information, analytical research and other sensitive corporate and customer data. Unfortunately, all too often, sensitive infomation is not secure, particularly upon equipment disposal.

Removing your risk of data loss is our key objective. Important and confidential data can reside not just on computer and server hard drives but across a wide range of devices - printers, copiers, scanners & faxes all frequently have non-volatile local memory (hard drives) holding copies of recent print jobs. Cell phones, PDAs and other smart mobile communications devices all retain confidential information. Even basic network equipment, like switches and routers, can hold network-specific information, such as static IP addresses, that can potentially expose your network to attack.

A recent study undertaken by Sims Recycling Solutions found the majority of printer hard drives contained readily obtainable data. Printable copies of bank checks, medical records and scans of driving licences were all found on end-of-life printers and copiers that customers had not scheduled for data management prior to recycling.

Sims Recycling Solutions undertakes a wide range of data erasing, sanitation and destruction services for government, military and law enforcement authorities and has extensive experience in this field. Our facilities are access controlled, our staff are background checked and 24/7 video surveillance is undertaken at all sites.

Data Security Regulations

There are many data privacy regulations in effect and our Data Security Regulations page provides infomation on the principal laws effecting businesses today.

Data Disasters

Many companies have experienced significant data loss episodes when disposing of their redundant equipment. The amount of data still residing on equipment is one of the key factors affecting value in some of the African and Asian markets. Our Data Disasters page provides some links to online reports of data loss episodes.

Data Destruction Standards

There is a range of Data Destruction Standards and guidelines. Ensure that your recycler is fully up-to-date with their current requirements. Many recyclers tout that they wipe drives to the DoD standard which is no longer correct as the DoD does not approve a wiping standard and hasn't since 2007.

For more advice on on how we can ensure your data security and to speak with a customer service agent, contact us.