Computer Help and Support

Data rot is an issue with all types of storage.

Any flash memory stores data as electrical signal. If you don't power up regularly, then it can be corrupted.

Hard drives store magnetically. You can use Windows built in systems to scan & correct data.

A lot of folks will copy data from 1 to another, because that strengthens the magnetic field that stores the data.

For cards & thumbs, just power it up a couple of times per year & that should preserve the data. But anything important should be duplicated on >1 device because any of them can fail.

3-2-1 rule: for critical storage. Stored on 3 types of media, store 2 on-site & 1 off site in case of a fire or other disaster.

Both have same issue of potentially losing data.