After Document Scanning, Here’s What to Shred

Hooray for document scanning services! They will allow you to finally clear out all of those clunky old file cabinets. Not only will you have more space, but you’ll also be better prepared for document recovery. Documents you require for daily business operation will be stored on a remote server, safe from local incidents.

The more immediate impact: You’ll be delighted to find more square footage in your office. Perhaps you’ll make room for more cubicles or improve your office supply storage. Or maybe you’ll just keep the new space clear for random office dance parties. Regardless, before you embrace your newfound openness, it’s important to set standards about what should be shredded and which old papers can simply be recycled. Read on to discover our top 10 list of documents that should absolutely be shredded for security purposes.

First, we’ll list specific information to look for as you scan documents. If you find any of these bits of information, document scanning services suggest shredding.

1. Debit card and credit card numbers
2. Social security numbers
3. Passport numbers
4. Bank account information
5. Driver’s license numbers
6. Employment information

Some experts also recommend shredding any document that includes an address or a phone number, but as this information is often available publicly, you may not feel that shredding is necessary.

Now let’s move on to the documents that should always be shredded, once you have created an online backup:

1. Payroll records
2. Legal documents
3. Profit and loss statements
4. Tax records
5. Personnel records
6. Market research
7. Client lists and files
8. Business plans
9. Accounting documents, including receipts, invoices and cancelled checks
10. Executive correspondence

Document scanning is an important step in any plan for disaster recovery. Documents can be stored online and accessed regardless of local conditions. However, to protect your brand name, intellectual information and employees, it’s important to shred the documents listed above. A good takeaway rule of thumb is to shred anything that contains proprietary, financial, customer, employee or client information. And if you’re looking for a company to provide superb document scanning services, give us a call.

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