Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE) — Question 195

Which of the following hard drive sanitation methods provides an organization with the GREATEST level of assurance that data has been permanently erased?

Answer options

• A. Degaussing the drive
• B. Factory resetting the drive
• C. Crypto-shredding the drive
• D. Reformatting the drive

Correct answer: A

Explanation

Degaussing the drive disrupts the magnetic fields on the drive, making data recovery nearly impossible, thus providing the greatest assurance of permanent data erasure. Factory resetting, crypto-shredding, and reformatting may not fully eliminate data, as they can potentially leave traces or be reversible with the right tools.