Question:

“As an expert, could you advise on the methods to permanently erase files from an Android device running Android 12, ensuring they are irrecoverable with standard recovery tools? Additionally, what steps can be taken to render files that have already been deleted unrecoverable? I would also like to know the process for achieving the same level of data erasure on a PC with Windows 11.”

Answer:

In the digital age, data privacy and security are paramount. Whether you’re disposing of your device or simply want to ensure that sensitive files are gone for good, permanently erasing data is a critical process. Here’s how you can permanently delete files on Android 12 and Windows 11 devices, making them irrecoverable.

1.

Use a File Manager:

The first step is to delete the files using a file manager app. This method is more effective than deleting files from within an app, which may leave recoverable traces.

2.

Employ a File Shredder:

For added security, use a file shredder app like iShredder or Shreddit. These apps overwrite the ‘free’ space where the deleted files resided with random data, making recovery nearly impossible.

3.

Encrypt Your Device:

Encryption is a built-in feature on Android devices that scrambles your data, making it unreadable without the correct decryption key. If your device is not already encrypted, enable this feature before performing a factory reset.

4.

Factory Reset:

As a last resort, a factory reset will erase all data on the device. However, ensure you have a backup of any data you wish to keep before proceeding with this step.

For Already Deleted Files:

To make previously deleted files unrecoverable, you can overwrite them with new data. This can be done by filling the storage with large, meaningless files until the storage is full, then deleting these files. This process may need to be repeated several times to ensure the original files are overwritten.

For PCs Running Windows 11:

1.

Use the Cipher Command:

Windows has a built-in command-line tool called Cipher, which can be used to overwrite deleted data. To use this tool, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type the command `cipher /w:C` to overwrite free space on the C drive.

2.

Third-Party Software:

There are also third-party software options available that can securely erase files and free space, ensuring that any previously deleted files cannot be recovered.

By following these steps, you can rest assured that your deleted files will not be recovered, protecting your privacy and security in the digital world. Remember, always back up important data before attempting to permanently erase files, as these processes are irreversible.