srm

SRM (Secure Remove) is a command line tool used for secure file deletion on Unix-like systems. It operates by overwriting the data of the specified files, making recovery virtually impossible. SRM helps ensure that sensitive or confidential information is completely erased, preventing unauthorized access.

1. SRM uses various techniques to overwrite data, including the Gutmann method, DoD 5220.22-M, and the RCMP TSSIT OPS-II standard.
2. It offers several options to customize the deletion process, such as the number of iterations, random data patterns, and the ability to remove directories recursively.
3. By default, SRM uses a mixture of random data and specified patterns to overwrite the file content, making it much harder to reconstruct any meaningful data.
4. The Gutmann method used by SRM follows a 35-pass pattern overwriting the file data, designed to counter advanced data recovery techniques.
5. SRM can securely delete files or directories, including hidden files.
6. It supports multiple filesystems, such as ext2, ext3, ext4, FAT, NTFS, and more.
7. The tool provides a progress indicator for larger file deletions, giving users an estimation of the deletion time.
8. SRM can be integrated into scripts or used together with other command line tools to automate secure file deletion.
9. It does not rely on the operating system's trash or recycle bin, ensuring that deleted files cannot be easily recovered.
10. SRM is typically used by security-conscious individuals, system administrators, or organizations that handle sensitive data and require a reliable file deletion tool.