Secure shredding
What is secure shredding?
Secure shredding is the process of irreversibly destroying confidential documents and data to prevent unauthorized access. Unlike basic office shredding, secure shredding is primarily done by a third party and follows strict protocols to ensure compliance with privacy laws and protect sensitive information. It’s widely used by businesses, healthcare providers, financial institutions, and individuals to safeguard personal and proprietary data.
How secure shredding works
Secure shredding can be performed on-site or off-site by a third-party provider. For on-site shredding services, a mobile shredding truck comes to your location, and documents are destroyed immediately under your supervision. For off-site shredding, documents are securely transported to a shredding facility equipped with industrial-grade shredders.
The process typically includes:
Secure collection: Documents are placed in locked bins to prevent unauthorized access.
Transportation: If off-site, materials are moved in GPS-tracked vehicles.
Destruction: High-powered shredders reduce documents to confetti-sized pieces, making reconstruction impossible.
Certificate of destruction: A formal document confirming compliance and destruction.
Recycling: Most shredded paper is recycled, supporting sustainability.
Why is secure shredding important?
Data protection: Prevents large threats like identity theft and corporate espionage by eliminating readable information.
Regulatory compliance: Meets legal requirements under HIPAA, FACTA, GDPR, and other data protection laws.
Risk reduction: Reduces liability of information getting into the wrong hands from data breaches and improper disposal.
Environmental responsibility: Most providers recycle shredded material, reducing landfill waste.
Peace of mind: Knowing your documents are irreversibly destroyed removes uncertainty and risk.
Commonly asked questions
What types of documents should be shredded?
Any document containing personally identifiable information (PII), financial data, medical records, or proprietary business information should be shredded.
Is secure shredding better than using an office shredder?
Yes. Professional shredding services use industrial-grade equipment and follow strict chain-of-custody protocols, reducing the risk of data leaks.
Do I need to remove staples or paper clips?
No. Most shredding services can handle small metal items like staples and clips.
Can I watch the shredding process?
Yes, if you choose on-site shredding. Many providers allow clients to witness document destruction for added assurance when it is done at the customer location.
What happens after shredding?
You receive a Certificate of Destruction, and the shredded material is typically recycled into new paper products.