I was recently doing some research on replacing one of our photocopiers. I like to use the digital copiers that allow for multi-functions like fax, copy, scan, print, and email. I came across a fact that most people are not aware of…Most copiers made after 2002 have hard drives inside of the units.

Yes, Hard Drives! What does that mean? Means that most digital copiers keep a digital copy of scans, faxes, copies and print jobs. If I was to just return that leased copier, it is possible that someone can remove the hard drive and have access to all of our documents that went through that copier, ever!

This was really shocking! Medical records, insurance info, financial info, employee records, tax documents… All those could be accessible if someone was inclined to look.

Fortunately, if you are aware of this, you can erase or wipe clean the hard drive. I was easily able to remove the info and avoid any patient data going out into the wild. Please keep this in mind if you have a digital copier and let any other business owner know about this little, potentially devastating fact.

Digital data brings a lot of power and benefits but like the saying goes, “with great power comes great responsibility.”