Wiping, also known as Erasure, is the process of permanently removing data from a storage device, such as a hard drive or USB flash drive. This ensures that the information cannot be recovered or accessed by unauthorized users. Wiping is often used when disposing of old devices or when sensitive information needs to be securely deleted. There are various methods of wiping data, including overwriting the existing data with random patterns or using specialized software designed for secure erasure. Proper wiping is essential for protecting personal privacy and maintaining data security, especially in environments that handle sensitive information.