Millions of people upgrade their gadgets when they become old or a new model releases into the market. The question is what do they do with their old computers, cell phones, tablets etc. Well, the best option for you and the environment is to recycle them or if they are not to worn out to recycle them hand them down to other members of your family. Even if you are handing them down, to some other member of your family, there are some important tasks you need to perform before you do so.
You will have to locate your personal info in the device, back it up and delete it after doing so, all before you hand down your device. You need to take make sure that all your private info like passwords, bank details, private files is removed from the device. Here are some things you need to do before you hand your device to some other person. Search and Delete The first thing you have to do is to delete all the info you do not want other person to whom you give your phone to, lay hands on the info. Previously, desktops and laptops were the places where a lot of personal and other info was stored. With the advent of Smart phones and other tablets the data is stored more in them now-a-days. To remove the info stored in your smart phone, connect it to the PC, then search and shred your phone’s file directory.
Factory Resetting Resetting the factory settings differs from device to device, so read your device manual. For apple products you can find the option in the iTunes when you connect your device to the computer or you can do it directly by logging into the settings of your phone and select general and then select “reset” option. For, Android devices, it can be done by going in to the “privacy” or “storage” settings in the phone menu. Create a controlled environment If you plan on handing your phone to your kid then take care to create an controlled environment for him or her.
You will have to install protective software in your phone to prevent your child from accessing inappropriate content on the phone. Parents need to excise control on the usage of camera function, You tube access and other internet content. If your kids are old you can use software like “Bsecure Online” or “Safe Eyes”. The best device for parental controls is the iPhone, they are embedded in the OS. Parents can restrict access to internet browser, games, music, apps etc. For Android devices you can install “ Net Nanny” which has the ability to block, monitor and manage apps. These are some things, you need to do before you give your mobile to a family member. Make sure you follow them to protect you data.
