Data Destruction
Noun · Security & Infosec
Definitions
The deliberate and verifiable elimination of data so it cannot be reconstructed from storage media or systems. Depending on the medium and sensitivity, that can mean cryptographic erasure, secure wiping, degaussing, or physical destruction.
In plain English: Permanently destroying stored data so it cannot be recovered.
Example: "The retired drives required certified data destruction before they could leave the cage."