Unpacking the influence of perceived credibility of guaranteed data destruction service on digital device recycling platform use: the perspective of privacy calculus

Purpose Digital device recycling platforms (DDRPs) are customer-to-business online marketplaces that allow consumers to trade in or sell their used electronics, like smartphones and laptops, directly to a business for cash or credit. Guaranteed data destruction is a service provided by most DDRPs to securely erase all data on devices being recycled or traded in. Perceived credibility of the service refers to the extent to which customers are confident in the effectiveness and reliability of the service offered by a given DDRP. Grounded in privacy calculus theory, the current study aims to explore the influence of perceived credibility of guaranteed data destruction service (GDDS) on one’s intention to use a DDRP. Design/methodology/approach An empirical study was conducted through an online survey of Chinese DDRP users. The proposed model was tested by analyzing the collected data using the structural equation modeling approach. Findings Our results indicate that perceived credibility of GDDS affects users’ intention to use DDRPs by decreasing privacy concerns and increasing perceived convenience and environmental benefits of these platforms. Research limitations/implications This study’s findings are based on data collected from Chinese DDRP users, which may limit the generalizability of the results to other cultural or market contexts. Practical implications This study provides practical guidance for DDRPs, emphasizing the importance of enhancing perceived credibility through transparent data destruction practices and certifications. Originality/value The findings of the current study offer implications for theory development in sustainable information technology and e-commerce as well as practical suggestions for increasing usage of DDRPs.