Permanent Eraser is like a garbage disposal and a shredder in one. It can make anything go away. According to the product page for Permanent Eraser, “When you normally delete your files in Mac OS X, the operating system is only forgetting where those particular files are placed, while the data still physically remains on the drive.” That is true. What Permanent Eraser does is similar to what the Secure Empty Trash in OS X, but easier, and more secure, because the app uses the Gutmann method instead of OS X’s DoD pattern. It can also erase any rewritable type CD or DVD, which I think is one of it’s best features. Another advantage is that there is almost literally no interface. It’s simply drag and drop; whatever file or folder or rewritable disc you drag to the Permanent Eraser icon on your dock will immediately be thrown away for good. And lastly, it has Finder integration and Automator integration.

Overall, I think Permanent Eraser is a great, well, eraser. When I needed it most, it was when I had a CD-RW to erase. You can download it here. It has full Leopard support and is available in many languages.

Screenshot