# Manager Showed Off His DOS Skills – With a Data-Wiping Command A 1980s manager's tech adventure - **Source:** [www.theregister.com - Articles](https://brifing.si/source/2c34ea50-d341-4a10-925d-12c012a9ad10) - **Published:** 2026-07-27 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/f84cf070-7900-442d-814e-04ad7e0e01ad ## A Tale: 'DEL *.*' In the 1980s, Clay, working on a construction site in Sweden, got the chance to use a computer out of curiosity. However, the only command he knew, 'DEL *.*', wiped all the data. This incident highlights the need for caution when non-tech-savvy individuals use computers. ## First Steps with Technology Clay noted that computers were not widespread at the time, and only two engineers used them. This situation shows how technology gradually entered the business world. ## The Cost of Curiosity During lunch break, Clay wanted to use the junior engineer's computer. However, the only command he knew, 'DEL *.*', wiped all the data, resulting in a major mistake. This incident reveals the risks faced by first-time technology users. ## A Lucky Outcome Despite Clay's mistake, the engineer friend remained calm and forgave him. This situation provides an example of how mistakes can be managed in the workplace. ## The Importance of Technology Clay's experience underscores the importance of technology in the business world and how critical its correct use is. Even a wrong command can lead to significant losses. ## A Lesson-Laden Story Clay's story shows that non-tech-savvy individuals need to be careful when using computers. Such mistakes can cause serious disruptions in business processes. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.theregister.com/software/2026/07/27/manager-showed-off-his-dos-prowess-with-a-command-that-wiped-data/5278057 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._