In a Reuters article release May 21, 2009 titled “IRS lax in destroying sensitive tax papers” by John O'Callaghan, sensitive taxpayer information was found in dumpsters outside all Internal Revenue Service buildings. This sensitive information was available and up for grabs by anyone, whether honest or dishonest.
According to the Federal Trade Commision, Americans have lost over 45 billion dollars to identity theft. The problem continues to grow. Many people forget just how easy it is to harvest information and apply for credit cards, bank accounts and other life-altering institutions.
OfficeZone.com recommends that businesses place shredders throughout a business or organization, whether it is a larger centralized shredder or several smaller shredders next to desks. At home, it is recommended to place a shredder wherever mail is opened. This makes it easy and convenient to shred sensitive information. OfficeZone.com recommends after a document is no longer needed, it should be shredded, cutting down on the chance it could be accidentally left out.
Cross cut paper shredders are the best type of paper shredder to use for maximum effectiveness. The confetti-like particles cannot be re-assembled easily and is almost 100% effective at cutting down on paper-related identity theft. Paper shredders range in particle cut and capacities. The higher the security level on a shredder, the smaller the particles will be. Levels range from 1 to 6.
For more information on cutting down on paper-related identity theft, or for more recommendations on the right type of paper shredder to use, contact OfficeZone.com (http://www.officezone.com) by calling 1-800-543-5454 or e-mail info@officezone.com. The entire selection of OfficeZone.com’
