Disposing hardware with patient data

Disposing hardware with patient data

Disposing hardware with patient data: On the dark web, healthcare-related computers are some of the most valuable purchases.

When it comes to old or spent hardware containing patient data, what should healthcare companies and institutions do?

Thousands of patients and their most personal information is compromised if sensitive information is improperly disposed of.

It is possible to secure a system’s drive so that third parties cannot access private data again when it is time to discard it.

Our managed IT services Albuquerque team put together this guide to help you safely dispose of hardware that once contained patient data.

managed IT services Albuquerque
Disposing hardware with patient data

Dangers associated with data

Overall, the highest bidder wins private healthcare data on the dark web. This is a story we hear too often as managed IT services Albuquerque. What can you do to reduce your risk?

Healthcare cybersecurity is in the spotlight as of recent years.

It’s not enough to throw away old files or computers if you deal with sensitive patient informatio

n. It is possible to recover 90% or more of a deleted drive using simple recovery software, and you can recover even more using sophisticated forensic recovery options.

Healthcare Data Security

Data backup is essential

Before discarding an old system, any healthcare provider should back up all vital data either on a unique server or in the cloud. Get a managed IT services Albuquerque team to help with this.

Emails, patient records, business information, and financial information can all be transferred to the other system.

Consider hiring a professional data backup company if you are unsure how to proceed.

Disposing hardware with patient data: Inform all Employees

Inform staff in advance of the need to discard old systems. Let them have the time to remove their files while having a conversation about proper security measures.

Providing software solutions

The software options available make computers safer for previous owners – and easier for the next owner – when it’s time to donate, donate, donate, or donate a PC to a good cause, new home, or parts repository.

Clear the Cache and history

You should clear your browser history and software caches on your own. You must disable all auto password and email saving options from your browser. Professional and personal accounts should have the auto saving options disabled.

Format the HDD

Usually, professional formatting can still leave data lingering on a HDD. Recovery software finds formatted content, which is something hackers use. After formatting, install another operating system – or use forensic erasure software – to prevent this from happening.

Erasure software designed for professionals

Professional erasure software permanently deletes data beyond simple formatting. Providing healthcare providers with this option is a much better way to permanently delete patient data.

Disposing hardware with patient data: Solutions for hardware

Remove and Destroy the HDD

Generally, the majority of IT professionals prefer the reassurance of removing the whole HDD and destroying it to ensure no data can be recovered. Never underestimate how far hackers may go to obtain patient personal information, regardless of how drastic this may seem.


Finally, there are a number of good causes and charitable organizations that can benefit from the remaining parts, including towers without hard drives. 

If you have any questions regarding hardware disposal please do not hesitate to contact our managed IT services Albuquerque team

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