How do I ensure that deleted files cannot be recovered?

Problem: You've heard that deleted files can often be recovered using readily available free utilities and you want to make sure that your deleted files are erased forever.

Applies to: Windows XP, Vista, etc.

Solution: Download and install the free "Eraser" utility.  Download and install "Eraser" for Windows XP 

After installing Eraser, you may Right-click a file or the recycle bin to securely erase it.  Eraser works by overwriting the deleted file(s) with random data.  We recommend using the "3 Pass DOD e" erase method which is VERY secure and doesn't take too long to complete.

If you are running Eraser for the first time you may want to overwrite all the unused space on your computer's drive (typically the C: drive).  This will overwrite all deleted files, making them unrecoverable.  To do so, right-click the C: drive icon in your "My Computer" window and select the "Erase Unused Space" option.  Click the "Options" button and select the "US DoD" 3-pass method.  Ensure that all check-boxes are checked and click OK.  Click YES to start the process.  The process could take several hours depending on the amount of unused space.