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Filed under: Security, Utilities, Windows, Freeware

Permanently erase Windows files in two clicks with RightDelete


Windows is a nice foundation, but there are some simple functions that have long been missing from the OS - like secure file deletion. RightDelete is just about the simplest app you'll find for adding that functionality. It's a free 156kb download for Windows 98 or better.

Extract and launch the executable and you'll be asked to confirm adding an entry to your context menu. You'll need the executable on your system to actually perform erasures, so don't just run it from inside the zip.

Once the menu entry has been added, just right click on any file and choose securely delete. You'll be prompted again to make sure you want to proceed with the deletion. The program utilizes the seven pass method, which is more than enough to prevent recovery with any normal applications.

It's fairly fast as well, wiping a 32mb file in just over two seconds.

[ via Freeware Files ]

Filed under: Security, Windows, Freeware

Securely delete files and directories with Wipe File

Wipe File
Want to delete some files on your hard disk and make sure that no one will ever be able to recover them? Wipe File is a free Windows utility that lets you wipe files or directories using one of 14 different methods. Instead of simply moving files to the recycle bin, Wipe File will overwrite the section of your hard drive that contained the file making it difficult, if not impossible for anyone to discover what the original file contained.

When you first run the program, all of the menus will be in German, but Wipe File supports 9 languages including English. Just hit the Extras menu to find a list of languages.

If you're looking for a program that can wipe entire discs or partitions, you might wan to check out Wipe Disc, another utility from the developer of Wipe File.

[via LUX.ET.UMBRA]

Filed under: Security, Troubleshooting

The right way to erase your iPhone

erasing iPhoneWith rumors flying about a summer release for the next-generation iPhone, a lot of people are going to selling off their current iPhones on eBay or Craigslist. Of course, you'll probably wipe the data from your phone before you let it go, but how can you be sure it's completely erased? Files have been recovered from refurbished iPhones already, so it doesn't hurt to take precautions.

First, do a restore of the phone from iTunes, with all syncing options turned off. That means clicking through each tab in the iPhone menu to make sure photos, videos, contacts and calendars aren't syncing to the phone anymore. Next, make 3 new playlists that are each big enough to use all of your iPhone's storage. Set one of them to sync, and fill up your phone with it. Then switch to the next one, sync it, and do the same with the third. These playlists should write over any remaining personal data, and leave your device lemony-fresh and ready to change hands.

[Via Hack a Day]

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