Cell phone users change their cell phones on an average of every year and a half. Most of the time, when one has updated, one is only too happy to dispose of the old phone in the most convenient way.There are many worthwhile organizations which will take your cellphone off your hands and distribute them to those who badly need them.

Others give or sell their old phones to close friends or associates and still others sell them in online auctions.

Whichever way you decide to dispose of your phone, it is important that you take one  necessary precaution. It is not in your best interests to get rid of your phone - AS IS. Erase your phone.

Your cellphone is privy to much valuable info to yourself and others. Not only may it hold your personal secrets in the form of emails and messaging but also your credit card info, passwords, etc. etc. If you use your cellphone in connection with your business, it may also contain very sensitive - and expensive data

While you may perform a simple erase, the information is still there waiting to be picked up by the vultures who thrive on the like of this. It is relatively easy to retrieve information that has been simply erased.

You will need to perform a full erase. Consult your phone manual on how to do this. In most cases it can be a bit awkward like pressing four different keys at the same time. You may require help. It may require two pairs of hands. There is a reason for this. Cellphone manufacturers make it extremely difficult to erase data accidentally. If you are disposing of your cellphone erase all your data deliberately. You will have no regrets.

PS. If you have mislaid your manual, you should be able to find the "how to" for your phone brand and model online.