Software:Redkey USB

From HandWiki
Short description: Secure data erasure software
Redkey USB
Developer(s)Redkey USB Ltd
Initial releaseAugust 27th, 2018
Written inC++
Operating systemOS Independent
PlatformLinux (Debian)
Available in15 languages
TypeData erasure
Websiteredkeyusb.com

Redkey USB is a computer utility developed to securely erase data. It is sold as a bootable live USB drive from which the Redkey software can be used on a perpetual license basis.

History

The application was first released in August 2018 following a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.[1] Its features and design were partly based on the feedback of the project's supporters who contributed to its development.[2][3]

During 2019, a second Redkey crowdfunding campaign went viral on Indiegogo following a video review by Linus Tech Tips.

In 2020, a third Redkey Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign introduced ATA-based internal erase technology and split the software into three different editions – Home, Professional and Ultimate.

During 2021, Redkey's software was certified to level 1 by ADISA Certification Limited for SSDs and MHDs. Following a re-certification process in 2022, this was upgraded to level 2 and has since been upgraded to level 4.[4][5]

In 2022, a fourth campaign was completed introducing a dual USB-C product design, the ability to wipe mobile devices and remote wiping capabilities.[6][7]

Technology and features

The utility is designed to run on Intel-based x86-64 PCs and Macs. Redkey’s software is written in C++ and uses Linux Debian as a platform.[8] The software utility on the USB erases data on entire drives by overwriting existing data.[9][10] It uses ATA standards to erase hidden areas, such as the DCO and HPA. Other features include unlimited use, reporting, scripting and remote wipe.[11]

References

  1. "This Key Can Zap Away Your Computer's Personal Data in Three Hours" (in en-US). https://www.insidehook.com/article/advice/red-key-erase-data. 
  2. Horsey, Julian (2018-03-23). "Erase Your Computer Data Before You Sell Using RedKey" (in en-US). https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/erase-your-computer-redkey-23-03-2018/. 
  3. Cáceres, Daniel (2021-11-24). "Destruye todos los datos de tu PC, Mac, móvil y/o tablet con la llave USB que arrasa en Kickstarter" (in es). https://www.businessinsider.es/redkey-usb-pendrive-elimina-todos-datos-pc-mac-movil-tablet-970071. 
  4. https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0011/7479/8361/files/RedKey_USB_-_ADPC145_-_Certificate_v1.0.pdf?v=1675213959
  5. Espectador, El (2021-12-05). "ELESPECTADOR.COM" (in spanish). https://www.elespectador.com/tecnologia/redkey-la-usb-que-no-almacena-sino-que-borra-informacion/. 
  6. "Redkey USB V4 Ultimate" (in en-US). 2021-12-09. https://www.coolthings.com/redkey-usb-v4-ultimate-cleanly-wipe-any-pc-smartphone-or-tablet/. 
  7. Miksa, Martin. "Neplecha ukončena. Redkey USB bezpečně smaže všechna data z mobilu i počítače" (in cs). https://mobilmania.zive.cz/clanky/neplecha-ukoncena-redkey-usb-bezpecne-smaze-vsechna-data-z-mobilu-i-pocitace/sc-3-a-1353889/default.aspx. 
  8. Ashutosh (2018-03-25). "Completely Erase Your Confidential Data Before Selling Computer - GadgetMeetsGuy" (in en-US). https://gadgetmeetsguy.com/completely-erase-your-confidential-data-before-selling-computer/. 
  9. "BTC Articles". https://computingsecurity.co.uk/articles/?article_id=11695&Mag=security. 
  10. Pascual, Juan Antonio (2021-11-24). "Ya puedes comprar la llave USB que destruye todos los datos de móviles y PCs" (in es). https://computerhoy.com/noticias/tecnologia/redkey-usb-v4-llave-usb-destruye-datos-moviles-pc-969695. 
  11. "Redkey USB: Military Grade Security For PCs Desktops & Laptops; Data Gone Forever" (in en-GB). https://davestechsupport.net/blog/redkey-usb-military-grade-security-for-pcs-desktops-data-gone-forever/. 

External links