Resetting a Mac to factory settings deletes applications and personal data, increasing processing speed.Areas like Host Protected Area store data inaccessible to users, necessitating data erasure to prevent leaks.A factory reset removes file system pointers but not the actual data, leaving recoverable traces.Secure data erasure is essential to prevent leakage of sensitive data like PII, PHI, and credit card information.Data protection laws mandate permanent data removal from all areas of Mac devices, including hidden zones.A factory reset does not meet secure erase standards required by regulatory guidelines like NIST 800-88.SSDs in Mac devices pose additional challenges as TRIM command and configuration can impact data erasure.Organizations need to maintain proof of data destruction for compliance with laws and regulations.Software-based data erasure tools are recommended for functional Mac devices, while physical destruction is necessary for non-functional devices.A lack of data destruction policies can lead to data breaches and legal penalties, as seen in the Morgan Stanley case.Using certified data erasure tools like BitRaser can help secure critical data on Mac devices before reuse or refurbishing.