I got this tip on my Kim Komando newsletter this week. I knew of removing info from old computers, but never thought about it on my phone. The newer phones have so much info now, you do need to wipe it, if you're recycling, or donating it to an abuse program, etc.
-------------
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average cell phone is used only 18 months. Multiply that by about 200 million cell phone users in the U.S. alone. That's a lot of discarded phones!
If you're getting rid of a working phone, have it recycled. But before you do, protect your personal information. Keep contacts, text messages and photos out of a stranger's hands.
Most cell phone recycling services expect you to erase data. And if your phone is as full as mine, you'll need help.
A good place to start is the Cell Phone Data Eraser at www.WirelessRecycling.com. Its instructions guide you through the removal of every last byte. Each set of instructions is customized for a phone model. The list is large, so your phone may well be included.
If not, the same information is usually included in your owner's manual. Look under phone settings or security. Most phones will clear contacts or reset the memory in one shot.
Don't forget the SIM card. You may have stored data on it. The tiny card may be tucked away under the phone's battery. Remove and discard it.
Now you can safely recycle the phone. Most cellular providers offer recycling services. You may be able to bring your phone into a store. You can also sell your phone through eBay or other auction sites.
Dreamer
Forums Administrator
--------------
You don't stop laughing because you grow old,
You grow old because you stop laughing.
-------------
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average cell phone is used only 18 months. Multiply that by about 200 million cell phone users in the U.S. alone. That's a lot of discarded phones!
If you're getting rid of a working phone, have it recycled. But before you do, protect your personal information. Keep contacts, text messages and photos out of a stranger's hands.
Most cell phone recycling services expect you to erase data. And if your phone is as full as mine, you'll need help.
A good place to start is the Cell Phone Data Eraser at www.WirelessRecycling.com. Its instructions guide you through the removal of every last byte. Each set of instructions is customized for a phone model. The list is large, so your phone may well be included.
If not, the same information is usually included in your owner's manual. Look under phone settings or security. Most phones will clear contacts or reset the memory in one shot.
Don't forget the SIM card. You may have stored data on it. The tiny card may be tucked away under the phone's battery. Remove and discard it.
Now you can safely recycle the phone. Most cellular providers offer recycling services. You may be able to bring your phone into a store. You can also sell your phone through eBay or other auction sites.
Dreamer
Forums Administrator
--------------
You don't stop laughing because you grow old,
You grow old because you stop laughing.
