Data disposal refers to the process of securely deleting or destroying data that is no longer needed. This is important for protecting sensitive information, such as personal details or financial records, from unauthorized access. Proper data disposal ensures that even if someone tries to recover deleted files, they cannot access the information. There are various methods for data disposal, including data wiping, which involves overwriting the data multiple times, and physical destruction, where storage devices like hard drives are crushed or shredded. Organizations must follow best practices for data disposal to comply with regulations and safeguard their reputation.