Featured Article from the ERA (Electronic Recycling Association), a CIPS Partner
Every October, organizations around the world recognize Cybersecurity Awareness Month—a reminder of how important it is to safeguard sensitive data in an increasingly digital world. At the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA), we know that protecting your information doesn’t stop at firewalls and passwords. It also means ensuring that old or unused devices are handled securely when it’s time to recycle or repurpose them.
Why Cybersecurity Awareness Matters
Data breaches continue to rise across all sectors, costing businesses, nonprofits, and individuals both financially and reputationally. What many people don’t realize is that sensitive data can still exist on devices long after they’ve been replaced. Hard drives, laptops, servers, and even smartphones can contain information that—if not properly destroyed—puts organizations and individuals at risk.
ERA’s Secure Data Services
As part of our mission to reduce e-waste while protecting Canadians’ privacy, ERA offers industry-leading data security solutions:
- Certified Data Wiping
Using advanced tools such as Blancco software, we permanently erase all information from devices, ensuring that data cannot be recovered. - On-Site and Off-Site Hard Drive Shredding
For organizations that require complete physical destruction, ERA provides both on-site and depot-based shredding options. Our mobile shredding trucks can come directly to your location, giving you peace of mind as you watch your drives being destroyed. - Certificates of Destruction
For compliance and audit purposes, ERA provides a detailed certificate verifying that data has been securely destroyed according to industry standards. - ISO-Certified Processes
ERA is proud to be certified under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO/IEC 27001—internationally recognized standards that demonstrate our commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, workplace safety, and information security.
Doing Good While Staying Secure
The best part? Once your devices are securely data-wiped or shredded, eligible equipment is refurbished and donated to charities, schools, and community organizations across Canada. That means your old technology not only stays out of landfills but also helps bridge the digital divide.
Take Action This Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October is the perfect time to review your organization’s technology lifecycle. Are there unused laptops, hard drives, or servers collecting dust in your office? Let ERA help you protect your data, reduce e-waste, and support communities in need.
Contact ERA today to schedule a secure pickup or on-site shredding service.