Drilling Radios Does Not Kill Radios, Leaving Sensitive Data Accessible

Have you ever disposed of a cell phone or computer hard drive by smashing it with a hammer and then tossing it in the trash? Aside from the obvious improper disposal of electronic waste, people often believe that physically damaging these items – as well as unwanted two-way radios – is a surefire way to prevent pre-existing data from being accessible to others. Sadly, nothing could be further from the truth.

One common destructive practice is drilling. Radio owners commonly drill through their outdated radios, thinking it will make them inoperable. The logic is simple. If the drill damages key areas where sensitive information and frequencies are stored, then no one will be able to access it. Disabling radios as a means of preventing secure information from falling into the wrong hands makes sense, but drilling isn’t the answer.

At HALOID, we’ve purchased drilled radios from various sources, replaced the damaged parts, and guess what? In 40% of the radios, the original programming was easily accessible! In many cases, even if the communication components, like the microphone or antenna were damaged, the memory features often remained intact because of the way the radios were constructed.

Before you attempt to dispose of your unwanted radios, find a local radio dealer that specializes in removing programming, especially if the equipment has been used by a government agency with active frequencies. HALOID can also properly eliminate sensitive information on radios, so that the radios may be safely repurposed for use by new owners or recycled.