Jackie Thompson
Only about 20% of electronic equipment or e-waste is fully documented and disposed of properly, according to the UN Environment Programme. While electronic waste is on the decline , proper disposal is still an absolute must. With electronics being an essential part of business processes and daily consumer life, special care must be taken to dispose of them in order to protect both personal data and the environment.
Data Breach
Security researcher Josh Frantz once bought 85 old devices from businesses that sold refurbished second hand electronics, and found that only two of those devices were properly wiped of the old user’s data. Frantz was able to recover hundreds of thousands of sensitive information like social security cards, addresses, full names, and even addresses. Most parents are aware of the precautions necessary to protect children’s safety online, such as not sharing their names and reviewing apps or programs they use, but it is also crucial to ensure that any sensitive data is wiped from devices prior to their disposal, which is particularly important when it comes to children. It is best to uninstall old apps that carry sensitive information, and restore the gadget to its factory settings to ensure all data is removed from the device.
Environmental Effects
Electronics and old IT equipment can be made of components that are hazardous to the environment, such as lead, mercury and cadmium. These components, if disposed of improperly, can lead to multiple negative environmental effects like poisoning the soil, air pollution, and even contaminating groundwater. It is best for consumers to partner up with a professional disposal company to handle their electronic waste. If there are no such enterprises nearby, it is recommended to go to a nearby recycling station so that any electronic waste can be disposed of properly. Not only will this relieve the burden from the consumer, but it should also help the environment, as components are separated and disposed of appropriately.
Personal Monetary Benefits
Beyond the data security benefits and environmental care, disposing of electronic waste responsibly can also be personally enriching to consumers. If their devices are cared for properly and remain in good condition, they can resell them on popular selling platforms like Craigslist or Amazon. There are collectors that pay top dollar for supposed vintage electronic pieces like old Nokia phones or the old Macintosh desktop monitors. Large companies like Apple also have a trade-in program that allows consumers to turn in their old apple products to earn credit toward newer Apple products. This is a good way for consumers to update their electronics, maybe obtain savings, and dispose of their old products in a swift and responsible manner.
Consumers must remember that old gadgets, computers, and other IT equipment may pose a danger to them — not only from an environmental standpoint, but in terms of personal data security too. This is why it is crucial to responsibly dispose of e-waste. Doing so ensures that consumers may move forward and purchase new electronics fully knowing their data is safe and that they have helped the environment in the long run.