Home : Everything Else : risks of not shredding documents with important information : Top 7 Risks Of Not Shredding Important Documents
Top 7 risks of not shredding important documents

Top 7 risks of not shredding important documents

With sensitive, confidential information always at risk of being misused or passed on to those unauthorized to access it, it is crucial to dispose of documents containing such data. This ensures that the documents do not get into the wrong hands. Shredding the documents is a commonly preferred way of getting rid of them. Not doing so can make the information, and by extension, individuals and organizations, vulnerable to the following security risks:

1. Data breach or leaks
Paperwork for a business could be resumes, project plans, reports, or more sensitive information. Client lists, financial reports, and trade secrets could also be documents worth holding on to. So, improper disposal of these documents can increase the risk of data leaks, which can make the business lose its competitive edge. Organizations must adopt proper disposal methods to avoid any data breaches or leaks. A shredder can eliminate this risk entirely by cutting up documents into strips, making them unreadable.

2. Identity theft
Improper document disposal can also increase the risk of identity theft. Many documents contain personal information like names, addresses, social security numbers, dates of birth, credit card information, bank account numbers, and more. Similarly, businesses could also have organizational or employee-related information that they do not want outsiders to know. Leaving these documents as is or simply throwing them out can leave businesses vulnerable to malpractice. For instance, some organizations are supposed to get rid of former client details. The improperly discarded personal information can be used for fraudulent activities, like making unauthorized purchases, opening new bank accounts, or blackmail. Shredding these documents after use can minimize the chances of an outsider getting their hands on the personal information.

3. Financial losses
If there is a data breach, a business can lose the trust of its customers. This can make customers unwilling to engage with the business, making it suffer financial losses. Data leaks can also make individuals vulnerable to identity theft, making them lose money if the fraud involves unauthorized purchases or money transfers. Recovering from such losses can take a lot of time and effort. So, to avoid dealing with the stress of data leaks, one should dispose of sensitive information as soon as possible.

4. Loss of credibility
A business’s reputation may be affected if a data breach due to improper document disposal comes to light. Stakeholders can begin to lose faith in the business as they would be unsure if their personal data is protected within the organization. This could affect the image of the business, which can take a lot of time to rebuild. So, not only can shredding documents protect a business against financial losses, but it can also help it maintain its reputation.

5. Legal violations
When companies do not adhere to document disposal practices, they make themselves open to data breaches and identity theft. Many companies are legally required to ensure proper document disposal to protect sensitive client or organizational data. Examples of regulations governing these activities are GDPR and HIPAA. So, if sensitive information is not disposed of safely as per the guidelines, companies can face legal action if caught. This then affects the companies’ credibility. It also means they have to pay fines or suffer legal consequences for improper document disposal. An easy way to avoid such issues is to get rid of sensitive data as per the regulations.

6. Interruptions in operations
Data breaches, identity theft, and fraud can compromise not only the company’s security but also its operations. It can bring essential daily activities to a complete standstill as the breach could mean the business is not in compliance with laws and has to suffer legal consequences. The breach can also hit revenue by causing a business to lose its clients, credibility, and security. Shredding important documents regularly can eliminate this risk. One can make room for a shredder in their office or work area and set a reminder at the end of the day to use the shredder. This can help one avoid leaving documents on their workstation unattended when they leave the office.

7. Corporate espionage
Another risk businesses could be vulnerable to is corporate espionage. Improper document disposal increases this risk, with important information in the wrong hands. If any competitors are willing to use the leaked information for their benefit, it can mean trouble for the business in question. Some parties who gain access to important documents may be willing to sell the information to competitors for personal gain. Either way, the business is now facing the risk of sabotage, where their data can be used against them. Here, the business may have a failed marketing campaign, product launch, or sales because of competitors using its data to sabotage its performance.

In addition to minimizing the abovementioned risks, shredding important documents can help businesses and individuals make room for other documents. Getting rid of papers in the office using a shredder can free up space on the desk and in filing cabinets for other things. To further save space and ensure reliability, one should consider choosing a compact shredder that does not have a history of breaking down or defects.

Top Reads

Top Tags

Popular Reads

11 management options to keep anxiety at bay
Health

11 management options to keep anxiety at bay

People with anxiety disorders regularly and excessively experience fear and panic in everyday situations. If unchecked, anxiety can impair normal functioning and degrade the quality of life. One must consult a health expert if anxiety is affecting their social life. But first, ensure that any physical health issues are ruled out before consulting them. Most individuals with anxiety disorders need medication or therapy, but coping strategies and lifestyle decisions can also be helpful. Stop and take a breath When you experience an anxiety episode, take a moment to think about what is making you feel uneasy. Usual anxiety symptoms include concerns about a recent or distant event. For example, you can worry that something wrong will happen to you in the future. Or, you can still be upset about something that has already happened in the past. But, whatever your concerns, most anxiety issues stem from not focusing on the present. The next time you feel nervous and get distracted from the present moment, sit down and take some deep breaths to reclaim your composure. You can regain balance and return to the present moment by pausing and taking a few deep breaths. If you have the time, consider advancing this practice by experimenting with breathing techniques.
Read More

Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast.
Health

10 best laundry detergents and their features

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free.  Gain Laundry Detergent Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household. Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes.
Everything Else

Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease   occurs when there is a gradual failure of kidney function due to illnesses, genetics, etc. The kidneys’ main role is to filter waste matter and flush out excess bodily fluids, but advanced kidney failure causes fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in the body. Various factors must be understood to manage the condition, including the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and more. Read on to learn more about chronic kidney disease. Causes of chronic kidney disease The main causes of chronic kidney disease are as follows: Diabetes When the body’s sugar levels are too high and become unmanageable, bodily organs stop functioning as normal. The first to be affected are the kidneys, leading to diabetes, which, in turn, affects the nerves, eyes, and heart.   High blood pressure This is when blood pressure against the walls of the blood vessels increases, and can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Hence, chronic kidney disease can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure.   Genetics Chronic kidney disease can also be passed down through the genes. Therefore if someone in your close family has the condition, it is likely to be passed down to you.   Autoimmune disease Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling of the small blood vessels, which are responsible for flushing waste out of the kidneys.  Birth disorder Sometimes, certain malfunctions of the kidneys develop in the mother’s womb and can cause infections and kidney damage later on in the person’s life.   Other causes Kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage or failure if not treated in time.  Glomerulonephritis It is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in the filtering segments of the kidneys.
Health

Have these 14 foods to manage macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes changes in the macula, leading to vision loss. Though there is no cure for this condition, following an eye-healthy meal plan is important in managing complications like vision loss. A nutritional regime for age-related macular degeneration should include healthy amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some foods that contain eye-healthy vitamins that help manage symptoms of macular degeneration are listed below. Macular degeneration Age-related macular degeneration is a primary cause of vision loss among people aged 55 years and above. The condition refers to the deterioration of the central part of the retina called the macula. Symptoms include blurry vision, blind spots, difficulty recognizing faces, visual distortions, and more. Studies indicate that nearly 20 million people in the country live with some form of age-related macular degeneration. This condition occurs in two forms- the dry and the wet form. The dry type occurs when the macula gets thinner with age. This condition gradually progresses over the years. The dry form can advance into the wet type when abnormal blood vessels develop in the back of the eye and harm the macula. The wet type of AMD usually accelerates vision loss. Leafy green veggies Dark-green, leafy vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin.
Health