Data Shredding Basics: Is Smaller Really Better?

About Data Shredding Basics

Don't let hackers and identity thieves steal your data to create fake identities, commit tax fraud, or steal your savings. With the right shredder, you can protect yourself by obliterating any sensitive information a thief might use.

There are three ways to figure out what type of shredder is best for you: general use for all types of paper; specialized use (like destroying old records); or intelligent destruction that does not produce crosscut particles that can be pieced back together with destructive lasers. You'll also want to look at how big the shredder is: desktops are good for home use while personal size shredders work well in smaller spaces.

While not essential, there are a few other things that you should consider before making your purchase. First, you may want to invest in a heavy duty shredder capable of shredding multiple sheets of paper at once. These models can handle paper up to 12" × 12" or larger. You may also want to consider an automatic shredder so you can completely de-chain your records and never have to worry about what goes into the wastebasket.

Choosing Your Shredder: What To Look For

General Purpose Models

General purpose shredders should be able to handle any type of paper without fail. They will usually have a slow-speed cut-to-cut operation, the ability to shred multiple sheets at once, and a large capacity. High security sheets will usually require manual feeders and special paper cutters, though. These models can be messy and should be used outside of your normal workspace if possible.

General purpose shredders are designed to handle everyday use, so there are a variety of features that should be taken into account. These include:

The size of the shredder should be considered in order to avoid clogging. Larger shredders work better for larger office shredding projects since they avoid overloading your wastebasket with waste paper (which could lead to cross-threads). Small shredders are perfect for personal use, but can be slow-witted when it comes to shredding multiple sheets at the same time.

Shredder capacity is also an important consideration. Most models have a modest maximum paper size of 8.5" × 11". If you are providing sensitive documents to your accountant or attorney, you will likely have to buy a larger machine that can handle up to 12" × 12".

You'll also want to consider noise level as well as security features. While some shredders don't make much noise at all, any type of operation over 70 dB is considered excessive. The better models produce sound only in the 40-50 dB range and will make a quieter overall package . Some models even have low decibel ratings for use in your office.

Finally, you'll want to look at the shredder's security rating. Since more sheets equals a higher security rating, electronic items like computers and monitors, cellphones, and hard drives all require shredders with higher security ratings (anything above level P-4).

Intelligent Destruction Systems

If you're looking for a more efficient way of destroying sensitive or classified documents, you might be interested in an intelligent destruction system. These systems take the guesswork out of destroying your data by either using lasers or flame cutting instead of blade technology that can accidentally give away your information through crosscut particles.

Crosscut particles are pieces of shredded information that are often used to reconstruct the original data. However, with the right system, this will never be an issue. Instead, you'll be able to effectively destroy CDs, DVDs, and hard drives without ever creating crosscut particles.

Using these systems is easy. Most will require you to fill out a form identifying what type of data is being destroyed before feeding your information into the machine via automatic feeder or manual feeder (for more sensitive items). After that, simply press the button and let the machine do its magic! These machines can also be used for confidential documents and are usually smaller than traditional shredders.

Security Level

Unlike general purpose shredders, intelligent destruction systems are typically only available in high security levels. These higher security models will feature 6-10 level laser cutters, which destroy information at the wave length of 6.5 microns and up. While levels 1-3 are still acceptable for paper documents, any documents produced by a level 4 or 5 model must be shredded at a secure location in order to be completely destroyed.

If you're looking to protect sensitive documents that contain corporate secrets as well as personal information (bank statements, credit card statements, personal letters and medical records), no other choice is better than an intelligent destruction system .

Compact Models

If your office space is small and you can't afford to buy a larger model, don't worry. Instead, choose a compact model that is small enough to sit on your desk or next to your computer. This type of shredder is perfect for home use or in any space where a large model would be too bulky.

Additionally, compact models typically have additional security features that meet all federal standards. For example, most compact models will come equipped with an auto stop feature that automatically stops cables if they are not completely inserted into the machine. This is important because it prevents the shredder from overheating due to improper use.

Some of these models even come with a keypad lock that prevents unwanted tampering with your documents. These features make compact models the perfect choice for any office space of all size.

So what should you look for in a compact model? Here are a few things to consider:

Manual feeders are preferred since they can handle larger paper sizes without causing jams and will let you feed sheets one at a time . However, if you're looking for an auto-feeder, go ahead and choose one that can feed up to 6 sheets at a time.

Conclusion

Once you have all of the information you need, it's time to shop for your new shredder. The choices are nearly endless and each model will serve a different purpose. Plus, with so many options available, finding the right shredder can be intimidating or confusing. However, once you know what to look for in a high-security model , it shouldn't take long to choose the best one for your needs .

The Best High Security Shredder

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