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Data Scrubber — Securely Wipe Files & Drives

Permanently erase files, folders, and drives so deleted data cannot be recovered by recovery software or forensic tools. Covers DoD-grade file overwrite, secure drive wipe, and SafeRestore's built-in scrubber.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Select files or folders to permanently delete — In SafeRestore, switch to the Scrubber mode and drag files, folders, or entire drives into the scrubber queue.
2. Choose an overwrite standard — Select your overwrite level: Single pass (fast, sufficient for most personal use), DoD 5220.22-M (3 passes, meets US Department of Defense standard), or Gutmann (35 passes, maximum security).
3. Run the secure wipe — Click Wipe. SafeRestore overwrites the file data on disk, then deletes the file table entry. The space cannot be recovered by standard data recovery software after a single-pass wipe, and not even by forensic tools after DoD or Gutmann.
4. Verify the wipe — SafeRestore generates a wipe certificate with file names, overwrite standard used, timestamp, and SHA-256 verification that the target space is overwritten.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a data scrubber?

A data scrubber is a tool that removes hidden metadata and embedded information from your files before you share them. Photos contain GPS coordinates, camera model, and timestamps. Documents contain author names, edit history, revision comments, and software version. A data scrubber strips this hidden information to protect your privacy.

What hidden data do photos contain?

Photos (JPEG, PNG, HEIF, RAW) contain EXIF metadata including: GPS coordinates (exact location where the photo was taken), date and time, camera make and model, lens information, aperture/shutter/ISO settings, device serial number, software used for editing, and sometimes the photographer's name.

Is SafeRestore's data scrubber safe to use?

Yes. SafeRestore's Metadata Scrubber runs entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your files are never uploaded to any server — all processing happens locally on your device. The original file is never modified; instead, a new clean copy is created with the metadata removed.

Can metadata reveal my location?

Yes. Most smartphone photos include GPS coordinates accurate to within a few meters. This means every photo you share online can reveal exactly where you were when you took it — including your home address, workplace, school, and daily routine.

How much does SafeRestore's data scrubber cost?

SafeRestore's Metadata Scrubber is included with the SafeRestore Cloud subscription at $4.99/month, which gives you all 7 privacy and security tools. Try free for 3 days, cancel anytime.

Related Guides

• Remove Photo Metadata
• Metadata Scrubber Tool
• Account Recovery

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