Recycling mobiles increases in the UK

Regenersis, Europe’s largest mobile phone recycling and reuse provider, announced that they processed more than 2 million handsets for reuse and recycling in 2008.

The company processed 2,007,652 handsets, the equivalent of one every 15 seconds. Handsets are cleared of all data, fully tested. If a handset is beyond repair or too old it is sent for safe recycling, ensuring nothing goes to landfill.

In addition, Regenersis studied a random sample of 2000 handsets processed during the first week in December and found that 99% of handsets received contained some sort of personal data, including: Contacts, SMS messages, pictures, music, videos, calendar entries, emails, notes, mailing lists and to do lists. In some cases, extremely sensitive information was contained, including bank details, addresses, and confidential emails.

Mark Franklin, Managing Director of Regenersis said, “We processed over 2 million handsets in 2008. Data clearance of these handsets is critical to ensure the security of those who entrust their unwanted mobiles to us. This can often take as long as 30 minutes depending on the complexity of the handset, so only the most reputable firms bother to do this essential work. Our advice to consumers is to check with the recycling firm to confirm that all data will be removed. If it isn’t, then think twice before sending them your handset as your data could end up in the wrong hands.”

Whilst Regenersis makes sure all data is erased from phones, consumers are reminded to make sure any sensitive data is deleted before they get rid of their mobile.

For further information, visit regenersis.com