usb memory stick

[dazdaz]

Hi all
How does one delete data on a usb memory stick. Never really needed to delete data before. it's recognised on my pc (xp) as 'j' external hardware/storage device.

Got me scratching my head.

Daz

[green granite]

If you want to delete the lot then right click on it and use Quick format option, otherwise right click on the file and use the delete option.

[dazdaz]

Thanks for your help GG

Daz

[henry crun]

Further question on the Delete function.

When using Delete, where does the deleted information go ?
Does it disappear irretrievably, or is it parked with a different header in an unused part of the drive ?

[Shunter]

No, it doesn't disappear irretrievably. In fact it's trivial to retrieve, even if you format the stick.

If you want to blast it permanently I suggest you download the excellent, free Eraser

[BOAC]

In simple terms, henry, the 'locator' for that file is removed so it cannot be found by the file system, and therefore where it is becomes 'free space'. As shunter says, if no other file is subsequently written over the space then an undelete programme will enable you to recover it. Something like 'Eraser' actually writes zeroes or ones or bananas over the file space so it cannot be recovered.

[mad_jock]

I though flash memory was different to Solid state disks.

[Gertrude the Wombat]

Well, you can try a free (or paid for) real deletion utility if you like, and whether or how much you trust it is up to you, but if you're really serious about making sure that nobody can ever read the information again there's always the same way of ensuring it that you apply to hard disks when decomissioning a sensitive machine - take a hammer to it.

As ever, you start by deciding on the threat model you wish to address, and then work out what's a proportionate response.

[BOAC]

.....and a smaller hammer than for a hard drive too

[Saab Dastard]

I though flash memory was different to Solid state disks.

Only in the interface.

SD