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 Check the results. Just like you would take a final look at your teeth in the mirror,
you should also check your data wiping results by examining the following:

 File Viewers to look at disk sectors after wiping.

 Log Viewer reports to review the process.

3. Establish a routine to improve results

A dentist will recommend brushing your teeth twice a day to prevent tooth decay. And
routine cleaning of your computer system is recommended to preserve data integrity and
prevent data spillage or unauthorized access to sensitive information. For best results, you
should do the following:
 Wipe records of internet activity and local history. Doing so after each session
before you shutdown or log off is like brushing your teeth before going to bed. It
takes a little extra effort, but it can make a big difference over time.

 Wipe free space. While this can be a time-consuming process, it is
recommended to do so as needed. For example, wiping free space should be
done after standard deletion of any sensitive data or file to clean up any residual
data.

Of course, you may think all this cleaning sounds great - but you may also be wondering how on
earth you'll find the time for it all! You may also be wondering if this is all really that important... If
you're yet to be convinced, let's use the dental hygiene analogy and compare dental and cyber
hygiene to weigh the benefits:

Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth Cyber Hygiene: Wipe data on your computer

 Avoid bacteria  Avoid data theft and ‘curious people’

 Avoid pain, dentists and big bills  Avoid difficult situations, ‘technicians’
and big expenses

 Better performance: eat, speak and  Better performance: run your system
socialize better securely and protect data better

 Keep your teeth, gums and mouth in  Keep your computer and privacy in top
top condition condition

28 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine – October 2014 Edition
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