As the holidays approach, the increased handling of sensitive documents—whether from business end-of-year filings or personal transactions—creates a prime opportunity for data breaches and identity theft. Taking steps to manage and dispose of these materials securely is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying safe this season, including how Amplify can help ensure secure practices while fostering meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities.

Organize Documents Before Disposal

Before shredding, it’s crucial to sort and categorize your papers. Separate sensitive information such as financial records, tax documents, and personal identifiers from non-confidential items. This reduces the risk of mistakenly discarding vital records and prepares you for effective shredding sessions. Create a checklist to identify key documents to keep, store, or destroy. Focus on outdated utility bills, bank statements, and receipts no longer needed for auditing or tax purposes.

Protect Data by Following Compliance Guidelines

Regulatory requirements around document retention and destruction vary by industry. Ensure your process adheres to local laws and federal guidelines, especially for businesses dealing with customer or patient data. Understanding these regulations can protect you from hefty penalties and maintain trust with stakeholders.

For instance:

• Financial institutions must comply with the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA).
• Medical professionals follow HIPAA standards for sensitive data disposal.

Don’t Forget Digital Data

Improper disposal of electronic devices is another security risk. Hard drives, USBs, and other digital storage devices often contain confidential data even after files are “deleted.” Amplify provides secure destruction of these devices to ensure no data can be retrieved.

Raise Awareness and Adopt Best Practices

For businesses, a culture of security awareness can significantly reduce risks. Train employees to identify sensitive documents, secure their desks, and follow established disposal protocols. Amplify’s inclusive and empowered workforce demonstrates the value of diligence and responsibility in protecting data.