Question 1

What's the difference between wiping, degaussing, and shredding?

Accepted Answer

Software wiping overwrites data with random patterns (good for drives being redeployed). Degaussing uses a powerful magnetic field to erase magnetic media (renders HDDs unusable). Physical shredding mechanically destroys the drive into small pieces. SSDs require shredding because degaussing doesn't work on flash storage.

Question 2

Is NIST 800-88 the same as DoD 5220.22-M?

Accepted Answer

No. DoD 5220.22-M is an older standard that specified a 3-pass overwrite. NIST 800-88 Rev. 1 is the current federal standard and is more flexible — it specifies Clear, Purge, and Destroy methods based on media type and security level. Most modern compliance frameworks reference NIST 800-88, not DoD.

Question 3

Can you destroy SSDs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. SSDs cannot be degaussed (they're not magnetic), so we use physical shredding or cryptographic erasure where supported by the drive firmware. For highest assurance, physical shredding is recommended.

Question 4

What does a Certificate of Destruction include?

Accepted Answer

Each certificate lists: the device serial number, make/model, media type, destruction method, date and time of destruction, technician ID, and facility location. For onsite destruction, it also includes witness verification.

Question 5

Do you offer onsite data destruction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our mobile shredding trucks are equipped with industrial hard drive shredders. We come to your facility, destroy drives on your premises, and hand you certificates before we leave. Popular with financial institutions, hospitals, and government agencies.

Question 6

How is pricing structured?

Accepted Answer

Pricing is per-drive for most services. Volume discounts apply for batches over 100 drives. Onsite service carries a trip charge plus per-drive pricing. We quote exact costs upfront with no hidden fees.

Question 7

Can you destroy data on tape media?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We handle LTO, DLT, DAT, and legacy tape formats. Tapes can be degaussed or physically shredded depending on your security requirements and the tape format.

Question 8

What happens to the physical media after destruction?

Accepted Answer

Shredded material is sent to certified e-waste recyclers (R2/e-Stewards) for metal and material recovery. Precious metals from circuit boards, rare earth elements from magnets, and aluminum from housings are all recovered. Nothing goes to landfill.

Data Destruction — Frequently Asked Questions