*Permanently Deleted*

💯

Even if it doesn't you don't want a country with an abusive government to have intel it can use to pressure you into doing whatever they want.

Devices with sensitive information are shredded, often the battery is removed to recycle separately.

As an european i feel flattered with that assesment. But that would be really bad handling of IT-security. I truly never want to get hold of the 'recycled' phone of high ranking politician.

I presume and expect them to as well, just really hoping they don't take the word burner too serious

It's Europe, so I'd presume they'd recycle. Of course, the phones might warrant secure disposal that precludes standard recycling.

She did quite well keep the right wing assholes inside and outside under control for a decade. That's a win for me

Merkel was a plant. I get the feeling most of Merkel's phone is spam, ads, and poorly focused photos. Fitting sacrifice to keep the spies thinking they were winning.

Considering they were caught having spyware on Merkel's phone from 2002-2013, it's strange to only make the change now.

It's reasonable to assume that whatever the US dumps from thos ephomes would end up in Moscow so it makes sense.

I hope they don't toss them out like criminals do, so much e-waste already.