5 Reasons Why DIY Shredding is Not Enough to Protect Your Identity

As we move towards a more digital world, the risk of identity theft is increasing day by day. While shredding is often recommended as a way to protect your identity, DIY shredding may not be enough. Here are five reasons why you should reconsider your approach to shredding.

1. Incomplete Shredding

One of the biggest risks of DIY shredding is incomplete shredding. It’s easy to miss important information or leave a document partially shredded. Identity thieves can piece together these shreds to access sensitive information like social security numbers or credit card details.

2. Lack of Security Measures

DIY shredding is often done with a basic home shredder, which doesn’t have the same security features as commercial shredders. Commercial shredders have measures like cross-cut shredding, which produces smaller and more secure pieces that are harder to piece together. Looking for a reliable commercial shredding service? Check out USA SHREDDING they offer secure and convenient shredding solutions.

3. Limited Capacity

Home shredders have limited capacity, which means that you have to feed in one or two pages at a time. This can be time-consuming, and you may not have the patience to shred every single document. This increases the likelihood of missed information and incomplete shredding.

4. Recycling Risks

When you shred documents at home, you’re left with a pile of paper that needs to be recycled. This can be a risk if you don’t dispose of it properly. Identity thieves can go through your recycling bin and piece together shredded documents to gain access to sensitive information.

5. No Backup

If you’re shredding documents on your own, there’s no backup in case of emergencies like a power outage or a jammed shredder. This can be frustrating if you need to shred a large number of documents in a short amount of time. When it comes to document destruction shredding, USA SHREDDING is one of the best in the business.

In conclusion, while DIY shredding may seem like a cost-effective solution, it’s important to consider the risks involved. Identity theft is a serious issue that requires a more robust approach to shredding. Consider using a commercial shredding service that has the security measures in place to protect your sensitive information. click hereto know more about Why Shredding Matters More Than Ever in the Digital Age.

FAQs

1. How often should I shred my documents? A: It’s recommended that you shred documents as soon as they’re no longer needed. This could be monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on your needs.

2. Can identity theft happen even if I shred my documents? A: Yes, identity theft can still happen even if you shred your documents. Shredding is just one step in protecting your identity. You should also monitor your credit report and be vigilant with your personal information.

3. Is it safe to recycle shredded paper? A: Yes, it’s safe to recycle shredded paper as long as it’s disposed of properly. Make sure to put it in a secure recycling bin or take it to a recycling center.

4. What should I do if I suspect identity theft? A: If you suspect identity theft, you should contact the relevant authorities immediately. This includes your bank, credit card company, and credit reporting agencies.

5. How can I prevent identity theft? A: You can prevent identity theft by being vigilant with your personal information, monitoring your credit report, and using secure methods of document disposal like commercial shredding services.