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As technology advances, we use our smartphones for multiple purposes like texting, calling, taking pictures, storing important documents, and personal data. However, what happens when we want to sell or give away our iPhone 13? You may think clearing all data including photos, videos, apps, and messages is enough. But the truth is, all this data can still be recovered if not deleted correctly, leading to a privacy breach of your personal information. Therefore, it is important to know how to completely erase iPhone 13.
Erasing an iPhone 13 is not rocket science; however, ensuring complete data deletion leading to a zero probability of data recovery requires the right method and precautions, without which data can still be recovered using special tools. This blog aims to provide you with a detailed guide on how to completely erase iPhone 13.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before you begin, there are certain things you need to consider:
- Ensure your iPhone 13 battery is charged above 50%.
- Back up all your important data in iCloud or iTunes before deleting it. Once you erase your phone, it will be lost permanently.
- Remove your SIM card before erasing your phone.
- Remember to disable "Find My iPhone" and deactivate your iCloud account if you have one.
What requires your attention is…?
When erasing your iPhone 13, you need to ensure that your personal data is erased, and the operating system is cleaned up without any remnants. You must be sure to choose an appropriate data erasure method that prevents recovering the deleted data. Any mistake can cause your data to be recovered by data recovery software, leading to data privacy violations.
Method 1: Factory Reset
This erasure method is effective but doesn’t entirely overwrite your data. Data remnants of previously stored data may still be recovered. Follow these steps:
- Open "Settings" on your iPhone 13.
- Click "General" and scroll to the bottom
- Select "Reset."
- Click "Erase all content and settings."
- Enter your iPhone passcode
- Click "Erase iPhone" to confirm.
Pros: Easy to use and built-in to your iPhone.
Cons: Does not guarantee complete data erasure leading to privacy breaches.
Method 2: Using 3rd Party Software
Using third-party software is a sure way to completely erase your iPhone 13 permanently. This software overwrites your data several times, ensuring its unrecoverability. Follow these steps:
- Download and install the data erasure software.
- Connect your iPhone 13 to your computer.
- Click "Erase" and select your iPhone 13 from the list of devices
- Press the "Erase now" button to erase iPhone 13.
Pros: Complete data erasure leading to its unrecoverability, leaving no remnants of previously stored data.
Cons: Paid software, requires installation on your computer.
Method 3: Degaussing
Degaussing is an effective but expensive method of erasing your iPhone 13 by overwriting the magnetic media several times to ensure complete data destruction. You can degauss through a phone buyback service provider. Follow these steps:
- Research companies that provide Degaussing phone service.
- Select your preferred company and request their service.
- Send your iPhone 13 to the service provider
- The provider will degauss your phone and completely erase your data beyond recovery.
Pros: Complete data destruction, mainly when you have sensitive information, which requires total data destruction.
Cons: Expensive, time-consuming, and requires professional assistance.
Why Can’t I Completely Erase My iPhone 13?
- Your iPhone may have a security feature preventing data removal in case of theft or loss.
- Third-party software used may not be compatible with your iPhone model
- Your iPhone may have issues like hardware or software errors that may prevent successful data erasure.
- You may forget to remove your SIM card, leading to recovery of your contact details or call history through your carrier.
Implications and Recommendations
The implications of not completely erasing data from your iPhone 13 are enormous and can lead to privacy breach and identity theft. Therefore, take extra caution when preparing to sell or give away your iPhone 13. Ensure that your phone data is entirely erased and beyond recovery to prevent any privacy violation, data theft, or leakage of sensitive information.
Recommendations:
- Use professional phone buyback services that provide complete data erasure solutions like Degaussing.
- Use third-party software that guarantees complete data erasure like iMyFone Umate Pro or KillDisk Mobile.
- Ensure complete data back up before erasure.
5 FAQs
Q: How do I know that my iPhone 13 data has been erased?
A: After completing the erasure process, check that your iPhone 13 has returned to its original settings. Also, perform a data recovery test to ensure no recoverable data exists.
Q: Can I erase an iPhone 13 without a computer?
A: Yes. You can factory reset your iPhone without a computer.
Q: Does erasing an iPhone 13 affect the device’s warranty?
A: No, data erasure does not affect your device’s warranty.
Q: Why is degaussing the most effective data erasure method?
A: Degaussing uses electromagnetic fields to destroy the magnetic media entirely, making it impossible to recover any data.
Q: Can I sell my iPhone13 with a cracked screen?
A: Yes, but the buyback price will significantly decrease. It is recommended to fix cracks before selling for better returns.
Conclusion
Protecting our personal data is crucial, and the importance of knowing how to completely erase your iPhone 13 is invaluable. We have provided you with three methods of data erasure, which are factory reset, third-party software, and degaussing. Therefore, it is advisable to take caution and choose an appropriate method that guarantees complete data erasure. Additionally, back up your data before erasure to prevent data loss. With these steps, you can protect your personal information and have the peace of mind that your data is secure.