preparing a device for sale - desktop or phone

[Jenny105]

Hi I'm thinking of selling my desktop and /or phone.  Both are owned outright .  

I'd like to know how to protect myself. Is there a trusty website that can advise on the subject below;

Protecting  files (docs, pictures etc) from the buyer. These can be saved to an external drive.  Then deleted on the device. But is this safe enough. Only one or two items contain slightly sensitive info. Will these be unrecoverable if   sold?

Any advice re internet files?

Does this work the same way with phones?

[MI5 · Accepted solution]

@Jenny105 anything stored on your hard drive can be recovered with the correct software.

There are programs you can get which will deeply erase info, but if it was me, I would sell without the hard drive. 

It all depends on the nature of the files you have on there.

[Bambino]

@Jenny105 Take a look at this link to prepare your phone. It covers Android, IOS, and Windows phones: https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-wipe-your-phone-or-tablet-before-selling/

[TallTrees]

Hi @Jenny105 

I have just retired and recycled two old Laptops. Open and take out the battery first.

Then take out the hard-drive.  Not difficult to do on a Laptop.

I Googled to check on how to first.  No doubt you can do the same for the desktop.

I shall be taking the advice regarding the mobile phones mentioned here as

I have three to recycle.

Good Luck 

[Jenny105]

That's what I was thinking...…..
or take it back to shop I bought it from and ask them what refurbishment involves for resell. Ask them to buy it.
There's very little that's an issue just one file that with lengthy research and understanding my coding could be of value...….. but no passwords