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AAbner's avatar
AAbner
Iron Contributor
Jan 14, 2026

How do I completely wipe an SD card and make it unrecoverable?

I heard that a simple format of an SD card doesn't actually erase the data and that files could be recovered. Currently, I am working on a data disposition project and require authoritative guidance ...
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BrantleyFrost's avatar
BrantleyFrost
Iron Contributor
Jan 14, 2026

To completely wipe an SD card and ensure data cannot be recovered, especially for a data disposition project, you need to go beyond simple formatting. Here's an authoritative, step-by-step approach tailored for secure sanitization of SD cards:

Practical, Completely Wipe an SD card

Step 1: Use a reliable SD card reader connected to your Windows PC.

Step 2: Choose a secure overwrite tool:

  • Parted Magic (recommended): Has a "Secure Erase" feature compatible with supported devices.
  • HDD Low Level Format Tool: Low-level formatting, but effectiveness varies.
  • Darik's Boot and Nuke (DBAN): Generally not effective on flash memory due to wear-leveling.

Step 3: Perform multiple passes:

  • Use the tool to overwrite the entire card with random data, multiple times.
  • Verify by attempting data recovery with forensic tools—if none are found, the wipe is effective.

Step 4: Physical destruction for maximum security.

 

Additional Considerations

Wear-Leveling & Hidden Blocks: Flash memory's wear-leveling can hide some data, making software overwrites less reliable.

Verification: Always verify the wipe by attempting data recovery afterward.

Legal & Compliance Standards: For high-security requirements, physical destruction combined with multiple overwrites is recommended.

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