Jason R. Rich, author of AARP’s personal tech books, answers: If you can’t wipe the device clean, then it’s time to get physical. For a computer, remove the hard drive and smash it with a hammer or drill multiple holes through it. For a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch, remove the SIM card (if applicable) and break it into pieces. Next, smash the mobile device or drill holes through its main components. You can even bring in a kid or grandkid, who will likely be thrilled to help. Then drop it off at a recycling center.

→ Email personaltech@aarp.org. Selected questions will be answered in a future issue.