Guide · Selling your unused gear
Wipe a device before you sell it
How to protect your data before selling a laptop, console, camera or other device in Kenya: back up, sign out, remove accounts and reset to factory settings.
Your old device holds your accounts, photos and passwords. Wipe it properly before anyone else gets it.
Steps for most devices
- Back up everything you want to keep, and check the backup opens.
- Sign out of every account: email, cloud storage, app stores, game services, browsers.
- Remove any lock tied to you, such as a find-my-device lock or a console account, so the buyer can use it.
- Reset to factory settings and confirm it restarts to the setup screen.
- Take photos of the reset device powered on for your listing.
By device
- Laptops: remove your accounts and use the system’s reset option to remove everything. Check any firmware or disk password is cleared.
- Consoles: deactivate it as your primary console in your account, then reset to factory settings.
- Cameras and audio gear: remove memory cards and clear saved settings, Wi-Fi details and linked accounts.
- Drives and cards: use a secure erase before selling, rather than only deleting files.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a device that is still locked to my account?
It would be hard for the buyer to use, and could lead to a dispute. Remove locks first.
Can I sell mobile phones this way?
No. Mobile phones are not allowed on Bids Kenya.
Related
Ready to list your item?
Listing is free. An administrator reviews it before it goes live.