Removing information properly.
WHY DELETING IS NOT ENOUGH
Deleted files usually remain recoverable until overwritten.
WHAT TO DO FOR FILES
Use a secure deletion method where the data is sensitive.
On an encrypted device, destroying the key effectively renders data unreadable.
WHAT TO DO FOR DEVICES
A full reset on an encrypted device is generally sufficient.
Otherwise, a secure erase.
WHAT TO DO FOR PAPER
Destroy securely.
WHAT TO REMEMBER
Copies exist in more places than the original.
Backups Email attachments Cloud services Other people's devices
THAT POINT MATTERS
Deleting a file does not remove it from your backups.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Retention periods, so deletion is routine rather than ad hoc.
WHAT TO RECORD
What was deleted and when, where it matters.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Keep everything indefinitely because deciding is effortful.
That accumulates risk and obligation.
