Why Shredding is Crucial to Protecting Yourself

When it comes to identity theft, most of us have learned how to take certain steps to protect ourselves including watching our credit reports, keeping sensitive documents in a safe place, shredding paperwork we no longer need and not sharing our information with unfamiliar sources. Address labels are often overlooked- but although they seem innocuous enough, the fact is, they can pose a risk of ID theft if disposed of carelessly.

Why Address Labels Pose A Risk

Address labels may seem harmless, but they contain just enough information for identity thieves. Your name and address can be all they need to gain access to a wealth of personal data. In addition, address labels can contain tracking information, account numbers and barcodes that often have personally identifiable information.

How ID Thieves Steal Your Information

Identity thieves can gain access to your personal information with just your name and address and use it to steal your identity. Once they have obtained your personal information, they can use it to access your banking information, credit accounts and more. There are several ways they can get a hold of discarded address labels and junk mail:

Dumpster Diving

Once you’ve placed your garbage outside your home, at the curb for pick up, it is not illegal for anyone to go through it. ID criminals know this fact and use it to go through your trash in search of anything that contains your personal information.

Mail Theft

It is not uncommon for crooks to steal mail right out of mailboxes. In addition to address labels, junk mail and more– they can take credit card offers, banking and insurance statements, tax paperwork and more. This gives them just enough to open credit cards and loans in your name, gain access to your banking account and more.

Shredding Address Labels Protects Your Identity

Shredding address labels can protect you from the risks associated with ID theft. It’s just as important as shredding junk mail and other documents that contain your personal information.

All Points Mobile Shredding can help you protect your identity by providing onsite mobile shredding. We come to your home or office with our state-of-the-art shredding trucks and shred everything onsite, allowing you to witness the entire process, which gives you peace of mind that your private information is safe. Give us a call today or complete the form on this page to get a quick quote.