Our mobile phones are more than just gadgets. They're extensions of ourselves, filled information about what makes us who we are. Private conversations, Instagrammed meals, sexy selfies - whatever it is, you don’t want that data to be accessed by just anyone. So when the time finally comes to sell your handset, you need to make sure that you completely wipe all the data. Show
In essence, to sell a phone you have to make sure to remove any trace of… well, you. Read on, and we'll tell you how to completely erase your Android or iPhone, and what your options are if you forget to do it. How to wipe personal data from your iPhoneA good thing about Apple iOS is that it's designed to be really easy to use. That design philosophy extends to all the various device admin you may have to do, including erasing all your personal data before you sell the iPhone on. The quickest way to erase stuff is to reset to factory settings (step 5), but for the sake of thoroughness, here's everything you can do:
Android handsets are more diverse than iOS devices, and the interface can differ depending on which manufacturer, specific handset, or even version of Android you're using. So bear in mind that your specific device might have a few language or menu variations compared to the information presented here. A factory reset (step 5) will wipe all your data, but here's everything you can do to remove wipe any trace of personal data:
What do I do if I send my phone without wiping the data?Oh no! You've already sent your phone without wiping your data? You're doomed! Actually you're not, so don’t panic. Recyclers will wipe your phone before they do anything with it. It's still more secure to do it all yourself first, but they're unlikely to send it back for the sake of a bit of admin. UNLESS… you don't turn off the passcode. Active security features will stop them accessing the phone, and they'll have no choice but to send it back to you. A small number may even charge you for the return postage. So, if you take nothing else from this guide, remember this: turn off your security! Is it worth using a mobile phone data eraser app?There have been some questions about exactly how good Android is at wiping your data. If you're sending your phone to a reputable recycler like those listed on SellMyMobile, most people will probably be okay with a standard factory reset, but if you do have concerns, you can use a data eraser (sometimes referred to as a data shredder) app to make sure no information is recoverable. There are various data shredders on the Google Play Store, but make sure you check reviews to ensure you're using legitimate, respected software. How do I wipe my iPhone before selling it?Go back to Settings and tap General > Transfer or Reset [device] > Erase All Content and Settings. If you turned on Find My [device], you might need to enter your Apple ID and password. If your device uses eSIM, choose the option to erase your device and the eSIM profile when asked.
Does erasing iPhone delete everything?After you enter your passcode or Apple ID, the iPhone will begin deleting its data, apps, and settings. This process will erase all of your personal information, restoring the phone to its original factory settings.
How do I clear my iPhone data and settings?Erase your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch and restore it to factory settings. Go to Settings > General > Reset, then tap Erase all Contents and Settings. Enter your passcode or Apple ID password. Wait for all content to be safely removed from your device.
How do I delete all data and settings?Restore factory settings - It's time to wipe your data. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
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