Proper Record Destruction Can Save Your Business

It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to a business’ identity. Information being tossed out should always be shredded, including diskettes, CDs and hard drives.

To make sure all unneeded information is properly destroyed, developing an information destruction policy is important.

• Determine how sensitive information will be stored until shredded. Since shredding information immediately after it’s no longer needed is unrealistic, businesses should determine how they’ll properly secure information until it can be destroyed. Sensitive information should be stored in a secure, locked location or Secure Destruction Bins designed for this purpose.    
  
• Develop a document shredding schedule. Rather than staff spending countless hours shredding information, consider utilizing a company that specializes in document destruction. Partner with a company that can create a schedule that will meet your goals while staying within budget.

• Create a process for destroying hard drives. It’s often assumed that once computer recycling bins are emptied, hard drives can be tossed in the trash. To be assured data on hard drives is gone for good, hard drives need to be completely destroyed. Consider working with a records management company that offers Electronic Media Destruction services that will physically destroy the drive.

• Speak with a professional information destruction firm. When developing an information destruction policy, take time to speak with a business that specializes in this service. These industry experts can review your policy and offer additional areas to consider.

By being diligent with how unneeded information is destroyed, a business can greatly reduce the likelihood of becoming an identity theft victim.