Looking for suggestions - defective external drive that probably has my stuff on it

[mlktwins]

I recently purchased a portable external hard drive from Costco.  Same brand I've used many times before (Seagate).  Trying to figure out how to return it 😬!

When I plugged it in and started copying files to it, it started clicking, etc.  This has not happened with my previous Seagate drives.  I was planning to clear it off and return it to Costco, but now the drive is not recognized on any device in my house.  As in I plug it in, like usual, and NOTHING.

So...I don't want to return this thing not knowing what files, if any, are actually on it.  We are talking Turbo Tax files, bank statements, all my in-laws documentation for the probate stuff DH and I are doing.  A lot of info could be on there.

Any suggestions?

[Lanny]

Suggestion: Physically destroy the External Hard Disk Drive.  Do not return it to Costco or anywhere, with the possibility of that kind of data on it.

If the drive was recognizable to the OS in your device (Laptop or Desktop) I have a DVD with a Utility that will completely wipe the drive (DBan?) but if you cannot use that, again, I suggest that you physically destroy the external hard disk drive. 

Better to bite the bullet and lose the money and not risk the possibility of someone getting their hands on critical data.

[El...]

My Dh says, based on your description, it's definitely a mechanical breakdown and not coming back. He would not return it to the store, but might try to get the manufacturer to trade, because he thinks they wouldn't try to fix it. 

I'd probably just destroy it and eat the cost. I'd be too worried that they'd try to refurbish it. 

[mlktwins]

7 minutes ago, elroisees said:

My Dh says, based on your description, it's definitely a mechanical breakdown and not coming back. He would not return it to the store, but might try to get the manufacturer to trade, because he thinks they wouldn't try to fix it. 

I'd probably just destroy it and eat the cost. I'd be too worried that they'd try to refurbish it. 

I will call Costco to see what they say.  And...Seagate.  Would like my money back.

But...you are both right and I could not return it - possibly too much info on there!