Before donating or recycling wireless devices, be sure to erase all personal data.
Here are four simple tips to safely remove your information, made available by the U.S. wireless industry:
- Preserve the contacts, photos, texts or other data you want to keep.
- Terminate your device’s wireless service by contacting your provider.
- Use device-specific instructionsto clear the device’s memory of stored information.
- Remove the SIM card (found in some GSM or 4G devices). If you’re unsure if your device has one, contact your provider for more information.
Now that your personal information has been safely removed from your device, who you donate to is your decision. There are a variety of options from carrier- and manufacturer-sponsored initiatives to third party organizations, such as drop-off or mail back programs, websites and charity drives. If you’re not sure where to recycle your wireless devices, such as cellphones or smartphones, all major carriers and many others will accept any device or accessory at their stores, regardless of which carrier provided your service.
