There is a new victim of identity theft every 2 seconds. Every 2 seconds! That is a lot of data and a lot of angry people. There are a lot of online security companies that can protect you while surfing the web and changing passwords is always a great idea. But what about all the paper data you receive every day. I am not a fan of the mailbox because it is always full of “junk mail.” New credit card offers and companies promising affordable hearing aids. While throwing away all that information may seem safe (it’s junk anyways) there are people out there who bank on it. Literally. For your safety, here is a list of information that should be shredded before being thrown or recycled.
- Documents Containing Financial Information: This would include bank statements, online purchase receipts, and credit card statements.
- Documents Containing Personal Information: Anything with your full name, address, driver’s license number, or date of birth should be shredded. Some of these documents may be from the DMV or IRS. It could also be the information you printed from your trip to Jamaica.
- Documents Container Account Information: Again, credit card statements! But also information such as utility bills.
- Junk Mail: Everything I’ve listed seems important to get rid of securely. But what about the mail you receive offering a new credit card with 0% interest. Or the extended warranty offer on your 10 year old car. Junk mail seems harmless but may contain a barcode on the front that could contain personal information.
- Child & School Related Mail: Adults are not the only victims of identity theft. Medical records, school field trip authorization forms, and report cards are all information a thief would like to have.
We live in a world where our information is everywhere. Let’s not make it easy to steal. Shout out to Hardin County in Kentucky for their efforts in protecting against identity theft with their mobile paper shredder trailer.
(List information found on The Balance)