Data sanitization is the process of removing or altering sensitive information from data storage devices to prevent unauthorized access. This is crucial for protecting personal information, such as credit card numbers or social security numbers, especially when devices are being disposed of or repurposed. By ensuring that data cannot be recovered, organizations can safeguard against data breaches and identity theft. There are various methods of data sanitization, including data wiping, degaussing, and physical destruction. Each method has its own effectiveness and is chosen based on the type of data and the storage medium involved. Proper data sanitization helps maintain privacy and compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.