Keeping your confidential data secure during hardware repair
Summary
Some product repairs may involve replacing your computer's hard drive, and some may not. If your hard drive contains sensitive or confidential data, read on for some suggestions on how to keep that data secure.
Products Affected
iBook G4, Power Mac G5, MacBook Pro, MacBook, Mac mini, iMac, eMac, PowerBook G4, MacBook Air
When your hard drive is replaced, the previous hard drive is returned to Apple and refurbished. As part of the refurbishment process, Apple erases and reformats all hard drives to help address any concerns about data security or identity theft.
Sometimes you may send in your computer for repair when the hard disk is still working—either the drive works intermittently or your hard drive isn't the issue requiring repair.
Tip: If you are concerned about data security and your hard disk is still functioning, you should back up your important data and use the secure erase functions in Disk Utility (described below) to reformat your drive before sending in your computer for service.
Your erase options depend on which version of Mac OS X you have on your computer. Mac OS X 10.3.x and earlier include a Zero all Data function in Disk Utility that you can use to completely erase the drive. Mac OS X 10.4 and later include additional secure erase options in Disk Utility.
Another option to consider is to encrypt your home folder using the FileVault feature available in Mac OS X 10.3 and later. FileVault prevents others from easily accessing any information contained within your home folder, even if the drive unexpectedly stops working or is serviced.
Always remember to make a backup of your important data before using any erase or encryption options, as any rewriting of data includes a risk of data loss.