Data Security Risks Are Clear, and Organizations Are Vulnerable
Data security today is an increasingly growing concern. It goes without saying that data security is more important than ever. 2020 has already seen some notable data breaches – 10.6 million MGM Resorts customers had sensitive information stolen, and the U.S. Defense Information Systems Agency revealed its network had been compromised.
The risks are clear – individuals and organizations alike are vulnerable.
Governments around the world have taken notice of these risks and have introduced measures to protect consumers. For instance, the EU introduced the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2018, providing stringent digital privacy protections and severe penalties for non-compliance. In the U.S., the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) came into effect, significantly expanding consumer rights regarding their data.
However, reducing data security risks goes beyond empowering consumers. Companies must implement effective policies to manage the data stored on their retired IT assets.
5 Key Data Security Risks in Technology Retirement
Data breaches and security risks often stem from the mishandling of retired IT assets. Key challenges include:
1. Idle End-of-Life IT Assets
A study by Blancco found that two in five organizations spend over $100,000 annually storing unused hardware. Moreover, 18% of respondents leave devices on-site without a plan for IT asset disposition. These idle devices often contain sensitive data, increasing the risk of breaches and loss.
2. Inappropriate Data Destruction Methods
Many companies lack a proper chain of custody or audit trail during data sanitization, leaving assets vulnerable during the disposition process. Proper compliance ensures traceability and security at all stages, including transportation to destruction facilities.
3. Over-Reliance on Disk Reformatting
Disk reformatting does not entirely erase data. Advanced recovery software can retrieve information, leaving organizations at risk of data breaches.
4. Mismanagement of SSD and HDD Wiping
Solid-state drives (SSDs) require more complex wiping techniques compared to hard disk drives (HDDs). SSDs store data on interconnected flash-memory chips, and standard HDD wiping methods are insufficient to securely erase them.
5. IT Asset and Equipment Destruction
Asset destruction must be handled by certified partners who ensure compliance with security and environmental standards. Risks such as hazardous materials and improper handling highlight the need for professional management. According to a Blancco study, organizations spend an estimated $1.7 million annually on in-house destruction, adding to operational inefficiencies.
SK tes: Your Trusted Partner in ITAD and E-Waste Recycling
SK tes is a trusted partner to OEMs and Global 2000 organizations, addressing these challenges with services across 38 global locations. We provide secure IT asset disposition, tracking, data sanitization, testing/refurbishment, remarketing, and recycling, supported by detailed compliance reporting.
Our data sanitization procedures comply with the NIST 800-88 and R2 standard, recognized globally by governments and businesses. We also conduct third-party audits to ensure 100% compliance, safeguarding data and processes at every stage.
SK tes helps organizations avoid costly pitfalls and legal liabilities during asset disposition. We ensure that your IT assets are handled securely, in compliance with global regulations, and in ways that support environmental sustainability while maximizing value recovery.
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