Remove sensitive files from hard drive

I’m a bit paranoid and have some private files I need to delete beyond all trace of recovery. What do you recommend? DAVID JOHNSTONE

Rob Mead-Green replies: There are several free tools available that can securely wipe all traces of files from your hard drive. One of our favourites – even though it’s now been discontinued – is File Shredder. You’ll discover how to use in the step-by-step guide right here – happy shredding! Download and install File Shredder from

www.fileshredder.org (it’s no longer supported, but works fine). Once installed, launch the program and click Add File(s) or Add Folder(s) to select the files and folders you wish scrubbed from your drive.

The default secure algorithm – DoD 5220-22.M – is a good choice, but if you want to change it, go to Shredder Settings and then select the Algorithms tab. Avoid the simple one- or two-pass options – any of the others are adequate alternatives.

Choose your file or folder from the dialog box, then keep adding files and folders as necessary. Select an item from the list and click Remove Selected if you added it by mistake. Click ‘Shred Files Now’, review your choices and then click OK.

You can completely remove traces of previously deleted files by clicking Shred Free Disk Space. Tick the drive(s) to wipe, choose your default algorithm and click Next > Start. The process can take quite some time, so be patient. It’ll be worth it in the end.