This paper investigates the characteristics, types and misuse of data, and methods of data protection on portable media. The paper begins by defining the problem and subject of the research, research objectives, research questions and research methods. It then deals with concepts and types of personal data, data collection, processing and storage processes, theoretical foundations of encryption, and portable media and data storage devices. The paper analyzes various data protection methods, including physical and software protection methods, and explores encryption methods and algorithms in detail. Additionally, the paper provides a comparative overview of data encryption and destruction programs, such as Bitlocker, Truecrypt, Mcafee Endpoint Encryption, HDDErase, Macrorit, and DiskWipe. Empirical research is focused on awareness of the need and possibilities of using data encryption and destruction programs, while analyzing sample determination, research limitations, data collection methods, and research results. Based on the results, the paper provides a discussion and conclusion about the importance of data protection and the application of data encryption and destruction programs in the modern digital environment.