This should bring a certain level of comfort to most private sector computer users. How to protect against shadow data security risks. Probably the first, most effective, step in reducing your vulnerability to shadow data leakage is knowledge that is exists. Knowing that shadow data potentially exists will ensure that you at least weigh the risks and make informed decisions concerning the scrubbing of data, degaussing storage devices and in managing the risks. U. S. government classified data handling instructions call for a certain specifications concerning the disposal of computer storage devices.
Data scrubbing through the use of multiple overwrites is on potential solution.
Still, there is no guarantee that software solutions will effectively wipe out all this information because the process relies on the drive's controller, which is not suited for this purpose. High-intensity degaussing of a hard drive platter, floppy diskette, zip disks and tape is probably the best way to ensure the elimination of threats associated with shadow data. This is an effective process to use when storage devices are being retired from service. Be mindful that the degaussing of a hard disk drive must be performed after the platters have been removed. Otherwise, the hard disk drive will act as a protective shield and some shadow data may survive.