I’ve put it off for so long. I always know I need to get a shredder and start destroying some documents. With 2006 taxes coming up I have no need to hold onto 2005 pay stubs, I’ve already reconciled to my W-2s. I have no need to hang onto old University bills, credit card statements, etc. In fact, here’s a guide on what you can trash. But, before you put it out on the curb you should definitely look a little closer..
So, do what I did and head out to Target (Wal-Mart, Office Max, etc.) and pick up one of those simple paper shredder attachments. They sit right on top of your existing trash cash and get the job done.
I was scared to see the last four digits of my SSN showing up on pay stubs. With my name last four, and a little more work someone could probably get my wireless phone account, PayPal password reset, bank password, etc. Heck, with a bank statement you could probably verify my identity over the phone. You’ve heard of pretexting right?
My new shredder has given me peace of mind and more file cabinet space. So, what are you waiting for? It’ll probably cost you less than $15.
Warning: Be sure you only operate your shredder “one person at a time”. Muti-person simultaneous use is apparently a little-known hazard.
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11 Responses
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Gah I love shredding papers. Just make sure you don’t lean over the shredder with a tie on…bad news bears.
Haha. Good call. It even said that on my instruction sheet. I’ll watch my loose jewelry, too.
If you can, spend a few more bucks for a cross-cut shredder. More satisfying shredding ..look at all the tiny pieces!
Good point. When I was looking there were none available but I agree, it can definitely be worth it.
What, and stop using the government shredders? We have the best shredders in the world. They have some sort of ultra cross-cut mechanism and make me wonder if one day I might lose an arm.
I must admit, it is a bit awkward to bring personal documents (aka credit card offers) into the office for shredding.
Another great point. I know my employer has a third-party document destruction service. I’d feel a bit at ease knowing they’re destroyed and then taken off-site by professionals.
It’s incomprehensible to me that my bank, in all its clueless imbecility, has spaces on the back of its ID cards for SS numbers.
I’m sure that no one fills them out, except the very people who would be most vulnerable to identity theft–the senile or confused elderly– so if someone stole or found their wallet, they’ve got their vitals.
I bought one two days ago, as a matter of fact — I’m loving it. Except last night I accidentally shredded my school excursion permission slip. :/
P.S. Allow me to see your Twitter status… or do you hate me?
*cries*
Yeah, Vince. That’s like the DMV asking if you want your SSN including on your Driver’s License. Um, well, there’s everything I’d need to open a bank account on one handy card!
Sorry, zzap, I forgot all about Twitter. You’re not alone, I had 10 requests waiting.
@Devin: No problems, it’s all good now — got a text on my phone with that you were doing.
I guess tearing up the paper up into little bits doesn’t count does it.