Page 209 - Cyber Defense eMagazine September 2025

Introducing Stellar File Eraser

If you’re convinced that deleting isn’t enough, what’s a good tool to actually wipe data? One solid choice
is Stellar File Eraser, a PC utility designed to permanently erase sensitive files and traces. Notably, it’s
available as a Free File Eraser Software (with a full-feature 30-day free trial), so anyone can try it
without cost.

Stellar File Eraser’s core engine is built for thoroughness: it uses advanced, multi-pass algorithms
(including DoD-style standards) to overwrite data beyond recovery. You can target individual files/folders,
entire drives, or even wipe internet traces and temporary files. It supports a wide range of devices…
hard drives, SSDs, USB sticks, memory cards, and even network servers.

Key features include:

• Free & user-friendly: It advertises itself as a free file erasure tool with a clean, intuitive interface.
There is no steep learning curve, so even non-experts can use it.
• Multiple erasure methods: You can choose Quick Erase, Secure Erase, or Custom Erase
modes to balance speed vs. thoroughness. For casual cleanup, one pass might suffice; for highly
sensitive data, you can opt for deeper multi-pass wipes.
• Scheduling/Automation: The software can run tasks on a schedule (one-time, daily, weekly,
monthly, or at system startup) so that wiping happens automatically. This “set it and forget it”
approach is great for routine clean-ups (like weekly internet history wipes or monthly archive
purges).
• Comprehensive cleanup: It will delete not just documents and images, but also browsing history,
saved passwords, application traces, and even wipe unused disk space. In other words, it is not
just a file eraser – it is a digital privacy sweeper.
• Detailed reports: After each erase operation, Stellar generates a report (PDF/XML) that logs
what was wiped. This is handy for compliance or audit purposes, showing proof that data was
destroyed.

In sum, Stellar File Eraser is a reliable, user-friendly solution for secure deletion on Windows. And best
of all, during its trial period it’s essentially free file eraser software, so teams can evaluate its power
without upfront cost.

Best Practices for Implementation

To make the most of secure wiping (and to actually stop insider leaks), follow some practical tips:

• Back up first: Before any irreversible wipe, ensure important data is backed up elsewhere. It
sounds basic, but it can’t be overstated. You will sometimes delete the wrong file.
• Layer your methods: Don’t rely on a single action. A solid approach is: 1) delete files normally
and empty the bin, 2) overwrite free space, and 3) use a dedicated eraser like Stellar for the final
pass. For extremely sensitive info, consider encrypting it first and then wiping the encryption keys.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – September 2025 Edition 209
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