If you have taken the precaution of downloading software like McAfee Mobile Security (MMS) on your Android or iOS device, you can remotely backup and then erase the data on your device, even after it has been lost or stolen. Next, delete the data on of your old device by opening up the Settings app, selecting “General” and scrolling down to “Reset.” From here, hit “Erase all contents and settings.” Select “Device” near the top-left corner of your screen, right-click and select “Backup.” To backup to iTunes, connect your device to your computer and launch the iTunes app. Here are step-by-step instructions for backing up to iCloud, and removing your information for iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch devices. Start with backing up your data to either Apple’s iCloud or iTunes via your computer. Your best bet is to do a web search for instructions on your specific device, but the options for backing up to Google Drive and restoring should both be in the Settings app. The process of backing up and restoring your phone can differ, however, depending on the manufacturer. Here’s how:Īndroid is the most popularly used mobile operating system in the world, so there are lot of old devices floating around.

That’s why it’s important to take the following precautions before getting rid of old devices.įor most devices, there are two essential steps you need to take to protect your data: backup your information and then restore the device to its original state. A common problem with this is that we sometimes forget about the wealth of personal information stored on our devices, and how easy it would be for someone to potentially access our data.Īnything from old text messages and emails, to photos, logins and more could fall into the wrong hands if your device is not wiped clean. Within a few years of getting a new phone or tablet, for example, we’re often tempted to upgrade to newer, faster models. When you think about it, the lifecycle of our devices is pretty short.

Dod disk wipe