Why Data Security is Paramount in Decommissioning Projects

When closing or relocating a data centre, the equipment you remove still contains potentially recoverable information. A data centre decommissioning that overlooks secure data handling can lead to serious breaches, regulatory violations, and reputational harm. In 2023, IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report found the global average cost of a breach was USD 4.45 million — the highest on record — underscoring the stakes. At Michaels Global Trading (MGT), we integrate data security into every phase of our projects to ensure clients avoid these risks.

• Mishandled IT assets can expose sensitive information and cause major losses
  
  
• Proactive security measures protect both compliance and reputation
  
  

Understanding the Risks

Every server, hard drive, and storage device removed during data centre decommissioning services may hold corporate data, customer records, or proprietary files. Studies show that many decommissioned drives still contain recoverable data when not properly wiped or destroyed. Without secure handling, these assets can be exploited, even if repurposed or donated.

• Drives and servers may retain data long after removal from the network
  
  
• Improper disposal leaves businesses vulnerable to cyber threats
  
  

Regulatory Compliance

Industries such as finance, healthcare, and government are bound by strict data protection laws. Non-compliance during decommissioning can result in severe penalties. Partnering with a provider that follows NIST or DoD data destruction standards ensures you meet these obligations.

• Regulations require proof of secure data destruction
  
  
• Certification helps demonstrate compliance during audits

The Role of Certified Providers

Specialized providers such as MGT combine secure chain-of-custody procedures with certified destruction or erasure methods. This ensures assets are tracked from removal to final disposal. Secure logistics also prevent tampering during transport — a growing concern, given that 17% of breaches in 2023 involved physical security failures.

• Chain-of-custody tracking maintains accountability from start to finish
  
  
• Certified destruction guarantees data is irreversibly removed
  
  

Asset Recovery with Security in Mind

Even when hardware has resale value, data must be wiped or destroyed before remarketing. A NAID (National Association for Information Destruction) survey found that 40% of second-hand devices purchased online contained personally identifiable information. Sanitizing hardware before resale prevents this risk while still allowing businesses to capture value from decommissioned assets.

• Secure sanitization protects against leaks during resale or donation
  
  
• Enables asset recovery without compromising sensitive data
  

Quick Recap

• Data centre decommissioning services must address the high cost and risk of breaches.
  
  
• Regulatory compliance demands certified destruction and documented proof.
  
  
• Certified providers like MGT combine security with asset recovery for maximum value and peace of mind.

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