How safe is data when sending laptop back for repairs

rainbow12

I recently bought a laptop from Argos and got the BSOD with an error code ending 0000034. I called Acer and they said to return it for repair, as it is a hardware fault. I use my laptop for some work stuff, banking etc. It has Windows 8 and I log in with my msn password as soon as it boots and because of this I dont log out of ebay, amazon, hotmail etc.
I cant access anything to log out of things / remove data and have back ups but Im concerned that some misuse could happen and my accpunts could be compromised.
Also, reading other threads makes me think I should return it to Argos (I only bought it in October). But this worries me even more about the security of my data if they exchange or refund it.

Is it going to be difficult for my data to be accessed? Is there anything else I can do?
Thanks

closed

Assume it isn't, backup your data using a linux boot disc (see end of speedup sticky), and factory restore it, odds are it's a software problem, if so, it doesn't need to go back at all.

HereToday

Have you attempted a System Restore(not Factory Restore)?

macman

Always assume that the data will be wiped. Assuming that you backed up prior to failure, its not a issue.
Change your ebay/Amazon accounts etc using another device.

iltisman

Tricky one , do you have a trusted tech savy friend who could remove the hard drive and wipe it or boot the device with a usb device and format the hard drive.
I once bought a broken laptop from the local recycling centre(tip)for £5 and I repaired it. I discovered it had been owned by a medical professional and had some pretty sensitive data on it. Luckily I am honest so I wiped the drive several times.

rainbow12

Thanks for the advice, especially to Here Today. I followed the link and managed to 'refresh' the laptop by pressing alt and f10 on reboot. It's a shame that Acer themselves didnt think to give me that advice. So I have now made a back up disc (and a back up for the back up). And no longer have to send my laptop away.
Thanks again, I really appreciate the advice

closed

proper backup http://www.macrium.com/reflectfree.aspx

Richard53

rainbow12 wrote: »

I followed the link and managed to 'refresh' the laptop by pressing alt and f10 on reboot.

Yay, result!

Now back up weekly, minimum. If you have sensitive data on the hard drive and have to send it away without having the chance to tidy up, you would need to remove the hard drive and format it remotely. That would be the moment where you patted yourself on the back for backing up your data the day before it all went South.