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When it comes to deleting computer files, the common misconception is that it is gone after one deletes it and empties the recycle bin. Although this action erases the file from the directory, it is not completely gone. Deleting the file only removes the way you access it, removing its reference from the Master File Table where all files are mapped. However, the actual data is still hidden in your hard drive and can be recovered. This advantage can easily become a problem if you are trying to delete locked, undeletable, sensitive files or if someone gets a hold of your computer and tries to recover sensitive information that you wanted to erase. Here are a few tips on how to delete computer files permanently.