A mobile data storage device (DSD) incorporating a mobile data storage device (DSD), the mobile DSD comprising a non-volatile storage medium configured to store user data, a data path configured to transmit at least data between the mobile DSD and a host computer system, a housing having a machine readable optical code and a controller. The controller is configured to receive, from the data path, a request to restore the mobile DSD to factory settings. The controller also receives, from the data path, a unique access passcode derived from the machine readable optical code. The controller validates the unique access passcode, and, in response to determining that the unique access passcode is valid, restores the mobile DSD to factory settings.