While many of us realize we are storing sensitive data on our PCs that could be dangerous in the wrong hands, few of us relish the thought of running yet another protection program. Into this void comes CyberScrub Privacy Suite 4.0, an easy-to-use data protection and erasure program.

CyberScrub erases files and folders from permanent and removable drives. You can also store personal or sensitive materials in the encrypted CyberScrub Safe where they will be protected from prying eyes both locally and over the Internet.

The CyberScrub interface is clean and simple--when you open the program, it presents you with a Quick Start screen. (You can disable this feature if you wish.) From this screen, you can perform four operations: wipe out evidence of Internet-related activities, erase specific files and folders, erase previously deleted files, or start with the full-featured Privacy Suite interface.

Close the Quick Start Screen, and you have access to the standard CyberScrub interface, which includes button options to perform the same tasks presented in the Quick Start screen, as well as one-click options. This interface also affords access to the password-protected CyberScrub Safe.

CyberScrub’s scheduling feature lets you automate important erasure tasks, and the program uses the latest erasure protocols to ensure total and permanent removal of desired data. Overall, it’s a handy little tool. However, we have two gripes. First, you cannot easily select specific files to exclude from erasure. Second, given its elemental interface, CyberScrub will appeal to novice users. As such, more detailed explanations of the importance and consequences of file erasure, plus an automated setup wizard or tutorial, would be nice.