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Remote Wipe (Fernlöschung)
In brief
Remote wipe (remote erasure) is a command with which a smartphone, tablet or notebook is reset remotely over the network or cleaned of company data. It is usually triggered via a device management system (MDM) or a manufacturer account, for example when a device is lost or stolen. For planned IT decommissioning, it does not replace verifiable erasure for each device.
Full and selective remote erasure
| Type | What is erased | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Full wipe | The entire device is reset to factory settings | Company-owned devices in case of loss or theft |
| Selective wipe | Only company apps, accounts and data in the business area | Private devices in the BYODmodel, departure of employees |
The command only takes effect when the device connects to the network again. A device that is switched off or disconnected from the network remains unchanged until then.
Limits when decommissioning
A remote wipe is an emergency tool. It provides no proof of which data carrier was erased with which method, and acts like a factory reset. If a lost device cannot be reached, there may be a Data breach . For planned returns it is therefore advisable to collect the devices, remove them from management, lift locks and have them erased with certification. More on this in the guide retiring company phones. Second IT erases smartphones and tablets with Blancco and issues a digitally signed erasure certificate for each device.
Frequently asked questions about remote wipe
Does a remote wipe work without an internet connection?
No. The device must be online to receive the command. Until then, the data stays on the device.
Does a remote wipe remove the activation lock?
Not automatically. If the device is still linked to an account, the lock often remains active after the reset. It must be lifted in the device management or in the account.
Is a remote wipe an erasure certificate?
No. The management software at most reports that the command was sent or executed, not which method was applied with which result.
When should you trigger a remote wipe?
A remote wipe is an emergency tool, for example in case of loss or theft. For planned returns, a different route is advisable: collect the devices, remove them from management, lift locks and have them erased with certification. Only this produces a record for each device.
Is a remote wipe the same as a factory reset?
It acts like a factory reset but is triggered remotely via a device management system or a manufacturer account. With a selective wipe, only company apps, accounts and data in the business area are removed. Neither variant provides an erasure record per data carrier.
Decommission company phones and tablets as planned – with a certificate for each device.
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