Now that digital data security is prevailing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep track of physical documents. Companies are directing their attention towards digital data, securing their passwords, and protecting their identity from those with malign intentions. However, they should also be careful about the documents at hand.

Now the question is, what are those things that need to be shredded immediately?

Anything and everything that has your physical signatures on it can be used against you. Therefore, it needs to be destroyed before it falls into the wrong hands. The following are some of the most important things found in an office that needs to be shredded right away:

1. Bank Statements

Once you have access to your bank statements, keep them secured until they are no longer needed. Get all the information you need and shred the document right away. This is to ensure that your personal information is safe and secure. Otherwise, these bank statements can be used against you.

2. Tax and Legal Forms

Legal forms are essential if you’re looking to maintain a track record of the various happenings in a company; however, after a certain amount of time has passed, when you no longer need these forms, get rid of them. Likewise, your tax files have all the information regarding your monthly income, social security number, address, etc. If this data falls into the hands of criminals, you might have to bear severe consequences. Therefore, you should always shred your tax and legal documents, instead of recycling them.

3. Credit Report

Credit reports have your personal data that can be used against you. Especially if you are an employer, where you have access to every employee’s credit reports, try not to print them. Even if you do, make sure to shred it; otherwise, your company might take a severe hit by the criminals.

4. Canceled Checks

Most people believe that canceled checks hold no importance. They write “void” on it and think that their job is done. However, these checks have your account details that can be used to transfer illegal money. You might lose your bank balance and end up sustaining a questionable amount – something that might get you in trouble. Therefore, you should shred your canceled checks and banks statements.

5. Medical Records

You might find it surprising but you need to throw your medical records into a shredder when they are no longer needed. Wait for a year or so, and when you feel like you need them anymore, shred them. Your medical records contain personal information that can be used against them. Not to mention, reports can be forged under your name, which cannot be a good sign for you!

Final Word

All the things mentioned in this article are considered to be trash. However, these items contain your personal information. Any document that has even a shred of personal data needs to go inside the shredder.