Seven Reasons Why Internal Personnel Should Not Be Shredding Documents

Don’t get us wrong: using your own paper shredder is better than nothing, but organizations that implement internal programs are not being as smart or secure as they could be.

1. They will see key Payroll information (who makes how much, who has how much garnished, etc.).
   
2. They will see materials that could involve legal affairs (who’s suing the company and for what).
   
3. They are annoyed at having to perform this menial task, which means sensitive documents almost always end up in the trash not shredded.
   
4. From unflattering reviews and corporate downsizing, they turn against their employer. Employees often believe that the employer owes them. You need not stray too far to encounter these individuals who’s business ethics include selling corporate information to competitors or identity thieves. The disgruntled employee has suddenly found a cash cow and some degree of vindication. The Company finds itself in a position that could have been avoided.
5. There is no “paper trail” from a risk management perspective. Documenting the exact date that documents were destroyed is a prudent and recommended legal precaution.
   
6. The internally shredded paper is just put in the trash, it is not recycled.
   
7. Most “office shredders” strip shred. This incomplete shredding leaves businesses vulnerable to having the document reassembled.