how to wipe a computer without admin password

Save your records, documents, photos, and videos on an external hard drive or flash drive before you wipe the computer clean. Follow these steps for a fool-proof deletion process that will keep your information safe: 1. 4 Steps to Completely Wipe Your PCįortunately, wiping your PC is relatively simple. That’s why you should always completely wipe a PC before you sell it, give it away, or even throw it away or recycle it. They know how to find the files you thought you deleted, and they know how to work quickly once they have the information in hand. These thieves are innovative and experienced.

Get medical or dental care under your insurance.

Use your name and information to open new credit cards or bank accounts.

Access your social security number and steal your identity.

Make purchases with your credit card information.

Sell your phone number, email address, or home address to any number of companies.

Blackmail you with threats to share details of private conversations.

Share your business secrets with competitors.What Bad Actors Do With Your Informationĭepending what you have on your computer, a hacker or a thief can use the information in a variety of ways: Those files can be recovered, and the wrong person can use that info to steal from you, access accounts and other records, or even blackmail you. It’s not enough to simply delete your files. Purchasing software that you will want to use on your new device, which you will need to remove from the old one so you can install it on your new one.Saving some passwords for frequently used accounts in the browser so you don’t have to type them in every time.Typing in dozens of passwords - and maybe even keeping a document of those passwords you were inclined to forget.Keeping your financial, health, and other records along with letters or notes containing private information and conversations.Putting your credit card information into a number of websites.

Think about the life of your computer and everything you’ve done on it, including: Our PCs have more stored information about us than we might originally believe. This guide explains how to completely wipe a PC and why it’s so important. Clearing your PC is relatively simple and could save you a lot of trouble down the road. Even if the recipient is a trusted friend, you don’t know where your computer will end up next or who else might have access to it.ĭon’t take those kinds of chances with your personal information. Handing it over as-is can give the new user access to your private information - even on files you thought you deleted - as well as all the software you purchased and installed. If you’re looking to sell, give away, or otherwise recycle your computer, you’ll need to know how to completely wipe a PC.

How to wipe a computer without admin password