Yes, scripts can be used effectively to clean up duplicate files or data entries. This involves writing or using small programs that automatically scan storage locations (like folders, databases, or datasets), identify identical or near-identical items based on criteria (such as file content, name, size, or hash values), and then remove, move, or report the duplicates. It's significantly faster and more accurate than manual searching and deletion.

System administrators often use PowerShell or Bash scripts to clean duplicate documents in user folders. Developers might write Python scripts using libraries like filecmp or hashlib to deduplicate user uploads in cloud storage applications like AWS S3, or clean duplicate records in databases before analysis. Photo management tools frequently include built-in scripting capabilities for finding duplicate images.

The primary advantages are massive time savings, reduced storage costs, and improved data organization. However, scripts rely heavily on accurate matching logic; overly simplistic rules might miss nuanced duplicates or incorrectly flag unique files. There are ethical considerations regarding irreversible data deletion, emphasizing the need for careful validation, backup strategies, and clear confirmation prompts before removal. Future script development focuses on smarter similarity detection and better integration with data governance platforms.