Data sanitization is the process of completely and permanently erasing data on a storage device. This covers both standard IT equipment with data storage and mobile devices, as well as internet-connected gadgets like wearables, medical devices, and automotive entertainment systems. Sanitized devices have no useful leftover data, and the data can never be retrieved, even with the help of advanced forensic techniques. According to Coleman Parkes data, 96% of firms have a data sanitization strategy in place; yet, just 62% of respondents in the United States believe the policy is adequately communicated across the organization.
