Non-rewritable CDs or DVDs, such as CD-R or DVD-R, cannot simply be overwritten or erased as is possible with rewritable media (CD-RW, DVD-RW).5 seconds in the microwave is usually enough, but not longer! User questions about my free program: ►►► BlankAndSecureTo ensure that data stored on such storage devices is no longer readable or recoverable, there are several effective methods you can use. One of the simplest and most effective methods is to destroy the physical structure of the disk. Microwave method- Caution when using: Place the CD or DVD in the microwave and heat it for no more than 5 seconds. This is usually enough to render the disc unusable. - Safety warning: Be extremely careful as this method can generate electrical sparks. Make sure the disc is alone in the microwave and there are no metal parts. Do not overheat the disc as this can damage the microwave or even cause a fire. - Effectiveness: This method destroys the data by melting the reflective layer of the disc, making it unreadable. Other methods for secure deletion1. Mechanical destruction - Shredding: Use a special CD shredder or a paper shredder that can shred CDs and DVDs. These devices will tear the disc into small pieces, making data recovery impossible. - Breaking: Gently bend the disc until it breaks. Be sure to wear safety glasses as the material can break into sharp splinters. Break the disc into several pieces to ensure it is no longer readable. 2. Chemical destruction - Destroying with solvents: Apply acetone or a similar chemical to the reflective layer of the disc. This can destroy the data structure. Be sure to use the chemicals in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective equipment. 3. Thermal destruction - Carbonization: Hold the CD or DVD over an open flame (such as a lighter or gas burner) to melt the reflective layer and plastic base. Be sure to follow fire safety precautions and only do this in a well-ventilated area. User questions and further tips- Files copied to CD and cannot be erased: CDs and DVDs that are non-rewritable do not allow files to be subsequently modified or deleted. Once written, the data is stored permanently. - Files accidentally burned to CD-R: If you accidentally burned sensitive data to a CD-R that cannot be overwritten, you should physically destroy the disc to ensure security. - Dispose of confidential data safely: For companies that store sensitive data on CDs or DVDs, it is important to dispose of these media safely. Mechanical destruction or chemical methods are the safest ways to do this. This ensures that no data can be recovered, which is particularly important to avoid data breaches. Recommended safety measures- Data encryption: Before storing data on CDs or DVDs, consider encrypting them. Even if the media is lost or stolen, the content will remain inaccessible to unauthorized persons. - Regular auditing: Regularly review your backup strategies and ensure that sensitive data is only stored on secure and controlled media. - Security software: Use specialized security software, such as "BlankAndSecure", to ensure that files on rewritable media are reliably deleted and made unreadable. By applying these methods and security measures, you can ensure that your non-rewritable CDs and DVDs are effectively and securely destroyed so that sensitive data does not fall into the wrong hands. User questions:I have copied some files and folders onto a CD, as well as some music. I now want to delete these files and have a clean, empty CD. When I delete the files, I get a message saying that the files can only be read and cannot be deleted. Is there a way to securely delete the files? I accidentally copied files onto a CD instead of a CD-RW. I want to securely delete all the files from the CD, but I can't because it is not writable. What can I do now? There are very sensitive things on it that shouldn't fall into the wrong hands? I have a stack of DVDs with confidential information that the tax office is not allowed to see during the next audit. My GmbH would have to dispose of them safely and effectively so that no data can be recovered. What is the safest and most efficient way to do the job so that I don't get caught with my foreign accounts? FAQ 41: Updated on: 13 June 2024 14:37 |