We’ve all done it.
Drag a file into the Recycle Bin, empty it, and breathe a sigh of relief like it’s gone forever.
But here’s the myth:
Hitting delete doesn’t actually erase the file — it just hides it.
And anyone who knows what they’re doing can often bring it back.
What Really Happens When You “Delete” a File
When you delete a file, your computer doesn’t instantly wipe it. Instead, it just removes the pointer that says where the file is, and marks the space as “available.”
Until that space is overwritten by something else, the file’s still there in the background. Which means:
• Deleted photos can often be recovered
• “Private” documents might still be lurking
• Even emptied Recycle Bins can be resurrected with free recovery tools
Why It Matters
• Selling an old laptop/phone – That “deleted” data could be brought back by the buyer.
• Throwing out a hard drive – Without proper wiping, your personal stuff is still on there.
• Work devices – Sensitive files may still live on, even if you “cleaned them up.”
Hackers, scammers, or just the next owner of your old kit could easily dig it out.
Real Example
In 2019, researchers bought a load of second-hand hard drives off eBay.
What did they find? Thousands of personal files still recoverable — including tax records, holiday snaps, and business documents.
All from drives the sellers thought they’d wiped.
Do This Today
- Use “secure delete” tools
Software like CCleaner or BleachBit can overwrite files so they’re actually gone. - Encrypt your drives
Even if files linger, without the decryption key they’re useless to anyone else. - Wipe devices before selling or recycling
Phones, laptops, USB sticks — factory reset isn’t always enough, so use the manufacturer’s secure wipe option. - Cloud check
Remember, deleting locally might not delete from your cloud storage. Double-check your accounts.
Key Takeaway
The Recycle Bin isn’t a shredder — it’s just a filing system for “out of sight, out of mind.” But the data still lingers until it’s properly erased.
If it’s sensitive, don’t just delete it — wipe it.
At The Cyber Workshop, our Cyber Hygiene Workshop walks you through easy ways to protect your data properly, so nothing embarrassing (or dangerous) comes crawling back from the digital graveyard.
Till next time,
Remember: deleted ≠ gone — it’s just hiding.
