What happens to your mobile devices when it’s time to upgrade to a newer device like the Apple iPhone 5s or 5c? Retired mobile phones retain confidential information even after restoring the factory settings. Choosing a trusted asset recovery, data protection and recycling partner for your organization is critical.

Tips for maintaining a sustainable, secure and profitable Apple iPhone reuse and recycling program:

1. Know EVERYTHING about your buyback and recycling partner. Investigate every aspect your recycler’s process. Make certain their downstream partners are also conducting their business practices in an environmentally responsible manner.

2. Do not completely trust your employees or third-party software with data deletion. Our operations department found that 27% of devices received from clients who had pre-wiped their mobile phones still contained sensitive information. Be certain your iPhone buyback company has rigorous processes in place to permanently remove the data on every device and quality assurance testing.

3. Read the FINE PRINT in regards to data wiping and security. There are multiple iPhone buyback and recycling companies claiming “complete data deletion and protection.” However, if you take the time to read their terms and conditions, most will state that it is the responsibility of the customer to delete their own data. Work with a company that understands iPhone specific data wiping processes, has quality assurance practices and high-security facilities.

4. Be skeptical of extremely high buyback pricing. Research what deductions are taken for minor cosmetic flaws. Since many buyback companies resell on eBay, they take significant price reductions for even the smallest cosmetic flaws after quoting a higher price. Try to find a company that will grade only on the operability of the iPhone.

5. Be sure your active lines are canceled. Of the thousands of wireless devices tested by e-Cycle’s data security department, approximately 2% still have active phone lines. Not only is this a security risk, it often results in substantial and unnecessary carrier service charges. Be sure your wireless recycling company tests for active lines.

6. A “destroy only” policy is bad for the environment and your bottom line. Extending the use of an iPhone from 18 months to four years saves 20% more energy than recycling alone. Data security is a serious issue, but a destroy-only policy harms the environment and the opportunity to reclaim revenues that can be used to greatly offset the cost of upgrading to the newest mobile technologies.

7. Make certain your logistics are in place. Be certain that your employees understand the importance of mobile recycling as part of your green initiatives. Work with a recycling partner that can offer personal support to assist your team in maintaining a successful program.

8. Measure your environmental impact. Work with a recycling company that will help your organization measure its positive impact on the environment through your recycling efforts. By measuring and reporting your positive impact on your community, you’ll have the information that you need to report and celebrate the successes of your sustainability initiatives.

In summary, wireless phones that are not properly retired may expose confidential data when they are resold on the secondary market. Every organization should have an official asset recovery and recycling plan in place to ensure the greatest return on their telecom investment, while protecting the environment and their sensitive information.

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e-Cycle is the trusted wireless mobile buyback and recycling partner for many of the largest organizations in the world. As the first mobile recycling company to achieve e-Stewards certification, we adhere to the highest standards for environmental responsibility and worker health and safety. e-Cycle offers a simple, secure, environmentally responsible and profitable way for businesses to sell and recycle used mobile phones and tablets. Learn more at www.e-Cycle.com.