Over 30 percent of Americans are exposed to and notified of data breaches that make them vulnerable to identity theft. Cybercrimes account for much of these cases, but technological advancements are working to make it harder for hackers to obtain information digitally. One of the easiest ways for identity thieves to access personal information is by obtaining paper documents that have been thrown away without being properly destroyed.
Do
Review Documents
Double checking your discarded papers before shredding them helps make sure you only dispose of paperwork you no longer need. Sometimes paper currency gets mixed up with documents, too, so keep an eye out for money as well.
Check Certification
Find a certified shredding facility to ensure that your information is handled correctly and safely. The National Association for Information Destruction certifies businesses that follow strict protocol to protect identifiable information in various forms. Any facility that has the recommended certifications should be able to verify their status upon request or on their website.
Don’t
Shred Time-Sensitive Documents
Some paperwork needs to be kept for a certain period of time before it is safe to shred it. For example, pay stubs, medical bills, bank statements, tax return records, and employment documents should be kept for at least one year.
Get Your Paperwork Strip-Cut
Finding a facility that utilizes complex methods of paper destruction minimize the risk of identity theft. At-home paper shredders are typically strip-cutters, which makes the shredded documents easier to piece together if they wind up in the wrong hands. Shredding companies that utilize these types of machines do not give their customers the necessary protection.
Cal Micro Recycling Can Help
Cal Micro Recycling is a reputable Southern California recycling and destruction facility that is certified by NAID and other organizations. By offering mobile services that can be performed on-site and completed with a Certificate of Destruction, Cal Micro Recycling gives customers optimal document destruction and the peace of mind they need.
For more information about professional mobile shredding services, please call Cal Micro Recycling at 909.572.1661.