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JoJo2

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#214714 25-May-2017 08:55
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Hi There.  I have a laptop which is about to be looked at under an insurance claim.  I have been told that it is likely it will be replaced (as the keyboard and mouse keys have issues, as well as other issues).  So my question is, what do I need to do to it before it is sent off for repair or possible replacement.  (I am a newbie, so please feel free to spell it out quite clearly lol).  I use the laptop for work, so it is essential that my clients information not end up somewhere it shouldn't, and of course my own information.  I use Google Drive to sync and store all my documents (including downloads) and only use gmail online, so no email program to worry about.  What else should I be looking to move/delete and or settings should I be looking at keeping information on before I send it away, bearing in mind I may never see it again, but that it may also come back to me if they can repair it cost effectively?

 

Any comments/hints/help would be much appreciated.  Thanks in advance :)

 

 

 

 


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timmmay
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  #1787923 25-May-2017 09:02
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1. Do a full backup. Better yet, do two full backups using different techniques. First could be copy all your data, second could be a full disk image using macrium reflect free or similar.

 

2. Reset the operating system to stock.

 

3. Wipe the free space with something like eraser.




JoJo2

43 posts

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  #1787927 25-May-2017 09:08
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 PS - Feel free to post a link to the relevant info if that's easiest.  Cheers!  laughing


JoJo2

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  #1787939 25-May-2017 09:26
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(Running windows 7)




Rikkitic
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  #1787997 25-May-2017 10:09
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See above. Do a full backup. Macrium Reflect is not difficult to use though the interface may look intimidating to a beginner. Maybe you can find step by step instructions on-line. The drive needs to be wiped as above. simply deleting files is not enough. If you are running Windows 7 maybe the laptop has a DVD drive. If you have the installation DVD, do a fresh reinstall of the operating system. You can restore your files from Macrium after you get the computer back.

 

 

 

 





Plesse igmore amd axxept applogies in adbance fir anu typos

 


 


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  #1788171 25-May-2017 15:35
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JoJo2:

 

I use the laptop for work, so it is essential that my clients information not end up somewhere it shouldn't, and of course my own information.

 

 

If its really that important, either remove the Hard Drive or wipe it . If wipe it must be a SECURE ERASE .
Thats it. they are the 2 options.
If not , then then you take the chance when the HD/laptop gets sent to god knows where .

 

"Essential " so dont take the chance.
If insurance right off, then the insurance company will sell it to god knows who . You loose control over what happens to it.

 


Also , in the future, when this is resolved ..
seriously consider what will happen to your clients info if your laptop gets stolen/lost. Look at some sort of encryption, otherwise anyone can just read and
copy all that data off (if stolen, lost, misplaced)

 

 

 

 


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