Protect Yourself Against Theft

Most of us never give a second thought to what we throw away in the trash or toss into the recycling bin. Papers, junk mail and other seemingly innocuous documents often end up in the garbage or sitting out on the curb waiting to be picked up by the recycling truck. But the fact is, many, if not all of these items, contain just enough information about you to allow a crook to steal your identity–which can then cause tons of damage to your life. Take a look:

1. Receipts

If you’re like a lot of people, you only save receipts of items that were expensive, that you may need to return or that are needed for your taxes or business expenses. But receipts of every kind can be used to steal your personal information. They often have your name, several numbers of your credit or debit card and perhaps even membership numbers, account numbers and more. The best way to ensure you don’t become a victim is to shred all receipts. 

2. Resumés

Resumés are loaded with personal information–name, address, email, phone number, birthdate and all of the places you’ve been employed and educated. It’s best to shred these kinds of documents to prevent dumpster divers or other unscrupulous characters from gaining your personal information.

3. Shipping Labels & Boxes

Online shopping and delivery services have become increasingly popular. Whether it’s furniture, household items, food, clothing, etc. buying products online is easy and convenient, but it can leave you open to the risk of ID theft. Shipping labels contain your name and address and many items are shipped in boxes that show what they are. For this reason, labels and boxes leave you vulnerable to ID thieves and burglars who are on the hunt for expensive items to steal.

4. Outdated papers & junk mail

Recycling is one way that many of us feel we can make a positive impact on the environment. And while that is true, you do need to be cautious and selective about the papers you throw into your recycling bin. Many victims of ID theft had credit card or loan offers stolen out of their recycling and did not find out until their credit report showed accounts they never opened. Savvy ID thieves know how to use those types of documents and other similar junk mail to steal your identity and get loans, credit cards or other financial services in your name.

Shredding household papers is an effective way to protect yourself and your family against theft. All Points Mobile Shredding provides onsite shredding of all your documents and because we come to you and perform the shred at your home or office, you are able to witness the process. We also provide a certificate of destruction with every shred which gives you further peace of mind that your confidential information has been securely destroyed.

To learn more and get a quote, give us a call or fill out this form.