I'm following the Apple guidelines to wipe my iMac hard drive before giving it away. I've read articles that say I need to take additional steps to make sure some type of specialized recovery software can't be used to get info from the wiped hard drive. Is that necessary, and if so, what do I need to do?
If you were using FileVault, then your hard drive would contain an encrypted disc image and without the password your personal files could not be retrieved after a basic non-secure erase.
See the Disc Utility manual for how to securely erase non-encrypted data:
"(Optional) If available, click Security Options,use the slider to choose how many times to write over the erased data, then click OK. Secure erase options are available only for some types of storage devices. If the Security Options button is not available, Disk Utility cannot perform a secure erase on the storage device."
If you were using FileVault, then your hard drive would contain an encrypted disc image and without the password your personal files could not be retrieved after a basic non-secure erase.
See the Disc Utility manual for how to securely erase non-encrypted data:
"(Optional) If available, click Security Options,use the slider to choose how many times to write over the erased data, then click OK. Secure erase options are available only for some types of storage devices. If the Security Options button is not available, Disk Utility cannot perform a secure erase on the storage device."
If you are worried MacOs's Disk Utility is capable of handling a secure erase as part of Step #7. A single write pass or even just zeroing out an HDD is enough to stop off-the-self software recovery. On an SSD erasure is naturally slightly more secure so a 'secure' erase is less critical or may not even be offered as an option. https://support.apple.com/guide/disk-utility/erase-and-reformat-a-storage-device-dskutl14079/mac
Note: MacOS doesn't let you erase the drive you booted off of so booting from internet recovery or an external drive/installer may be required.
No, simply follow all the steps in What to do before selling or giving away your Mac
Thank you!
You’re welcome.
Do I need to use special software after erasing hard drive to make sure all data is truly gone when giving iMac away?
