Your first step erased your directory, but it left your data intact ...
I left out the in-between step whereby I initialized the entire drive thereby destroying all the data files. The zero overwrite was just added 'protection'.
How did you do that in-between step?
The new Great Equalizer is the SEND button.
In Memory of Harv: Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities. ~Voltaire