The Cyber Defense eMagazine November Edition for 2023

certified data sanitization software and hardware solutions equipped to handle a massive variety of asset
types and configurations for those inclined to leave nothing to chance and want to keep risk mitigation
and data security in-house. There are also the aforementioned IT Asset Disposition Companies or 3 rd
party professional services companies, many of whom also provide on-site data sanitization services and
white glove asset removal.
What to look for in a solution or service
First and foremost, any solution or service should have certification(s) that attest to their efficacy and
professionalism. Certifying bodies such as R2, e-Stewards, and NAID AAA provide detailed audits of IT
Asset Disposition (ITAD) companies and 3 rd party service providers to ensure they are meeting a variety
of standards for asset handling, tracking, and, of course, data security. Certifying bodies such as ADISA
provide detailed forensic analysis of software solutions for compliance with NIST and IEEE erasure
standards. Make sure that whomever you deal with has certifications appropriate to their function.
Conclusion
In today’s increasingly complex business environment, a massive number of data-bearing devices are
constantly being placed in end-of-use states through technology refreshes, lease returns, malfunctions,
and a variety of other reasons. Regardless of the inactive status of an asset, and no matter how daunting
the task, data-bearing devices must be protected by proper sanitization techniques that adhere to the
highest standards. Finding the right solution or service can be challenging, but proper due diligence and
prioritization around data security will ensure that no data leaves a facility and keeps both businesses
and customers safe.
About the Author
Roger Gagnon is the President and CEO of Extreme Protocol Solutions,
a leading provider of data sanitization solutions based outside of Boston
in Uxbridge, Massachusetts. He began his career as a data storage
engineer for both EMC and Digital Equipment. In 1999, the Worcester
Polytechnic Institute grad founded Extreme Protocol Solutions (EPS).
Over the next two-plus decades, Roger built EPS into a global player in
the data storage test, development, and sanitization markets. EPS
remains committed to cutting-edge, customer-focused solutions that
ensure risk mitigation while providing substantial ROI for Fortune 100,
500, and 1000 companies. Roger can be reached at
rgagnon@extremeprotocol.com; EPS’s website is
www.extremeprotocol.com.
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