Top 5 Mistakes Businesses Often Make When Disposing of Confidential Information

When it comes to handling confidential information, getting disposal wrong can cost a business big time. From data breaches and identity theft to regulatory penalties, the risks are just too high to ignore. Yet, many businesses still make common mistakes that leave sensitive data vulnerable. Don’t worry, though. We’ll walk you through the top five mistakes and share tips to prevent them—because keeping your business secure is easier than you think.

 

1. Failing to Shred Documents Properly

Let’s start with the obvious—skipping the shredder. Tossing documents into the trash or recycling bin might seem harmless, but it’s a goldmine for dumpster divers. Anything with account numbers, Social Security information, or client details is a potential target for identity thieves. Even “minor” documents, like meeting notes, can reveal more than you realize.

How to Avoid It:
Invest in a secure shredding solution. Proshred® Delaware offers professional shredding services that ensure your documents are destroyed beyond recovery. Plus, our mobile shredding trucks make it convenient—you can even watch the shredding happen if that gives you peace of mind!

 

2. Improper Storage of Sensitive Documents

Before disposal even becomes an issue, many businesses fail to store confidential information securely. Piles of paperwork left on desks, in unlocked drawers, or in storage rooms can easily fall into the wrong hands.

How to Avoid It:
Implement a document management policy. Designate secure storage areas, such as locked filing cabinets or password-protected digital archives, for sensitive information. And when documents are no longer needed, transition them to a shredding plan without delay.

 

3. Waiting Too Long to Purge Outdated Records

Holding onto documents “just in case” is a mistake that we see all the time. While it’s important to retain certain documents for as long as legally required, hanging onto unnecessary paperwork can clutter your office and increase the chances of a data breach.

How to Avoid It:
Schedule regular document purges. Proshred® Delaware offers one-time purge shredding services to help you clean house. Combine that with a retention schedule to ensure you only keep what’s legally or operationally necessary.

 

4. Not Training Employees on Proper Disposal Practices

You might have the most secure shredding policy in place, but if your employees don’t know how to follow it, it’s not going to help. For example, an intern might throw sensitive files in the trash without realizing the importance of shredding.

How to Avoid It:
Educate your staff! Host training sessions on your company’s data protection policies and explain why secure disposal matters. Make it easy by having clearly labeled shredding bins located throughout the office. And if you use Proshred® Delaware’s services, you can assure your team that their efforts are backed by professionals.

 

5. Using Insecure or Outdated Shredding Methods

Believe it or not, even shredding can go wrong if you’re using outdated or lesser-quality equipment. Basic strip-cut shredders, for example, aren’t secure enough for modern threats. If your pile of shredded paper can be pieced back together, that’s not real security.

How to Avoid It:
Partner with shredding experts. Proshred® Delaware uses industrial-grade shredding equipment that meets the highest standards for security. Plus, we provide you with a Certificate of Destruction after every shred, giving you documented proof that your sensitive information has been properly disposed of.

 

Take a Proactive Approach

Disposing of confidential information doesn’t have to be a headache. The key is being proactive—store documents securely, train your team, and shred, shred, shred! If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start, know that Proshred® Delaware has your back.

We offer customizable shredding solutions, whether you need a one-time purge or a scheduled shredding service for ongoing support. Together, we’ll make sure your business is protected from data breaches and compliance issues.

Reach out to Proshred® Delaware today to learn more about our secure shredding services. It’s time to ditch the mistakes and make secure document disposal an easy part of your routine!