CCSP · Question #52
Which of the following is the best and only completely secure method of data destruction?
The correct answer is C. Physical destruction of resources that store the data. The most secure and complete method for data destruction is the physical destruction of the storage media itself, as it renders data absolutely unrecoverable.
Question
Which of the following is the best and only completely secure method of data destruction?
Options
- ADegaussing
- BCrypto-shredding
- CPhysical destruction of resources that store the data
- DLegal order issued by the prevailing jurisdiction where the data is geographically situated
How the community answered
(26 responses)- A4% (1)
- B4% (1)
- C92% (24)
Why each option
The most secure and complete method for data destruction is the physical destruction of the storage media itself, as it renders data absolutely unrecoverable.
Degaussing effectively destroys data on magnetic media but is ineffective for SSDs or optical media, and residual magnetism could potentially leave data recoverable with advanced techniques.
Crypto-shredding involves deleting the encryption key, making encrypted data unreadable, but the data itself remains on the storage medium and could theoretically be recovered if the key is compromised or cryptanalysis advances.
Physical destruction, such as shredding, pulverizing, or incineration of the storage device, renders the data absolutely unrecoverable by physically destroying the magnetic platters, flash memory cells, or other storage components. This irreversible process eliminates any possibility of data remnants being retrieved.
A legal order mandates data destruction but is not a technical method for physically destroying data.
Concept tested: Secure data destruction methods
Source: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/compliance/regulatory/offering-nist-sp-800-88-r1-guidelines
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