Deletion Illusion: Deleting a photo or file from a phone does not mean it is immediately removed. The data is moved to a hidden folder, similar to a recycle bin.
Recently Deleted Album: Photos and files can often be restored from this album, showing that deletion is not immediate.
How Deletion Works
Data Retention: After emptying the trash, data isn't physically erased. The phone deletes the reference to the data's location, not the data itself.
Data Overwriting: The data remains until it is overwritten by new data.
Storage Metaphor
Book Analogy: Phone storage is like a book where each file is a chapter. Deleting a file is like erasing its entry from the table of contents, but the chapter still exists until overwritten.
Data Recovery
Recovery Possibility: Recovery apps and digital forensic experts can sometimes restore deleted files because they are not truly erased.
Overwriting: New data gradually overwrites old data, which can corrupt or partially erase deleted files.
Secure Deletion
Overwriting Data: Secure deletion apps overwrite files with random data to make recovery impossible.
Multiple Overwrites: Some users overwrite data multiple times for added security.
Limitations
Bad Sectors: Areas of storage that become unusable can retain parts of files indefinitely.
Complete Erasure Challenges: Due to potential retention in bad sectors, complete data removal is challenging.
Conclusion
Tech Illusion: Deletion on digital devices is often just an illusion. To ensure complete removal, files need to be overwritten.
Practical Steps: For permanent deletion, use secure deletion methods and be aware of the limitations like bad sectors.