Apple Genius appointment - do I really have to back up then wipe entire laptop?

[ShinesLikeGold]

Because quite frankly I can't be bothered.

But do I really have to back everything up, log out of all my websites, wipe clean my email etc??

Have had a couple of such appointments in the past and been advised to back up but not wipe everything. I would certainly do a backup as they can't guarantee they won't lose what's stored on there. They won't refuse to help you if you haven't but will warn you of the risk.

No I've never had one before, but I've been told all photos, saved logins for webpages, emails etc need to be wiped for privacy reasons?

Depends what your going for. I went because I was having problems with my trackpad. I backed itupbut that was it. The laptop never left my sight and was fixed front of me.

They say that because they may need to take the laptop for repair or replace for you and then recycle your one. Your data and passwords are then at risk.
Ultimately your risk, your choice.

When my ipad was replaced for a screen fault they took the old one off me and wiped it but no I wouldn't wipe it for a normal appointment.