I want to completely destroy my old hard drive but it contains some data that should not get leaked. What is the best way to destroy a hard drive?
You only have to ensure that the platters do not spin to completely destroy a hard disk drive. Either by hammering on the hard disk, dismantling it, or sanding down the platters, and jab openings in between platters. You can also pound nails or crush it into pieces, or use a sledge and crush it into small pieces. If the platters can no more spin, you’ve done quite a good job.
If you want to destroy or break your old hard drive because it contains some sensitive data, you don’t really need to do this just to get rid of the data. Your hard drive doesn’t have to be involved in removing those files. One solution that will work without the need to destroy the hard drive is to simply shred the drive.
Shredding the drive is like putting the files into a paper shredder. It destroys the files without the chance of recovering it. Download the free version of CCleaner and install. Once installed, start CCleaner then go to “Tools” on the left pane and select “Drive Wiper” on the right. In “Wipe,” select the option you want to use then select the drive you wish to wipe.
Click “Wipe” to start shredding or wiping the drive.
