What are Electronic Files and Media?
Electronic files and media are basically anything kept digitally. So, CDs, USB drives, Thumb drives, floppy disks, computer hard drives, cell phones, smart phones, palm pilots, photo copiers, SD memory, cameras and other devices like these. They are all devices that store data.
Why can't I just throw them in the trash or sell them?
Well, actually you can. As long as you are 100% sure that there is no data on them. In many cases, it is possible to securely erase digital media. However, those methods can be costly and take special software or hardware. It can also take a lot of time.
Aren't we supposed to Surplus all of our computers, phones and devices?
Yes, all University purchased equipment should go to surplus. Once it is taken to surplus, there are procedures in place to make sure that any digital media is securely cleaned before it leaves campus. If the media contains sensitive data, it might even need to be physically destroyed. More details on Surplussing your equipment can be found on the UM System surplus site.
So, what can I do with these old drives and disks?
ITS has a way to securely destroy drives, disks and media. We routinely take digital media to a company that specializes in shredding. We securely store the media until it is delivered to that company and we witness the destruction of it. Once it is shredded, it is no longer of any use.
Devices that need to be properly disposed of should be taken to the Technology Support Center at the address below.
A link to our policy on data disposal can be found here: Data Disposal Policy
Technology Support Center (Help Desk)
190 MSC
(314) 516-6034
helpdesk@umsl.edu
