Private file protection
How can I protect photos, accounts, and work files before PC repair?
Make and verify a full backup, sign out of accounts, and remove local copies that are not needed for the repair. Keep any private data left on the device encrypted and locked, and remove data drives when the repair does not require them.
Finish privacy preparation before handing over the PC
Document the fault and the access needed for testing without giving unrelated sign-in passwords. Sign out of browsers, email, chat, and cloud storage, then review the desktop, Downloads, Recycle Bin, and application caches. Verify backups before deleting anything.
Create a temporary restricted account if repair staff must sign in. Follow organizational procedures for client records, contracts, and company data; hidden attributes and renamed files are not protection. Review account and device status after the repair.
- Verify backups before removing local copies
- Do not provide unrelated account passwords
- Use a temporary restricted account or remove unnecessary data drives