The goal of the Clear method is to overwrite the storage sector with non-sensitive values using non-invasive read/write commands. NIST Clear method is based on erasing the data stored in all user-addressable locations on PATA, SATA, eSATA, and other ATA hard disk drives (HDD). NIST 800-88 suggests Clear and Purge as the two methods to overwrite (i.e., erase) the target data on a hard drive using a mix of logical and physical techniques. NIST 800-88 is one such prevalent standard, providing in-depth coverage on media sanitization types, implementation techniques, usage scenarios, etc. Several standards govern the media sanitization procedures, including data erasure. Data erasure and other media sanitization procedures are essential protocols in the IT asset management policies of such privacy-focused organizations. In such scenarios, the organization needs to erase the hard drives following the standard procedures to ensure the permanent removal of the complete data in line with applicable data protection laws. For example, an organization may need to dispose of the used hard disk drives, solid-state drives, or devices with built-in storage, or it might be returning the storage devices acquired on lease. Protecting this data from leakage and breaches is crucial for organizations, significantly when the hard drive’s custody or ownership changes. Modern hard drives inside computers and servers can store humongous data reaching terabytes in size. In this KB we will explain NIST Clear & Purge methods, and provide instructions for securely erasing drives using NIST 800-88 standard.
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