As Washington businesses face an increase in data breaches and identity theft, the need for robust security measures to protect sensitive information has never been greater. According to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, 143 businesses in Washington have suffered data breaches in 2024 alone, exposing over 1.5 million individuals’ personal information.
While cyber threats are often in the spotlight, the mishandling of physical documents and outdated electronic data is a leading cause of data leaks and identity theft. Yet, many businesses in industries like finance, insurance, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and legal services are unaware of the risks posed by improper disposal of sensitive documents and electronic devices.
“Document shredding and hard drive destruction are two of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information,” says Miracle Lewis of CI Information Management. “Yet, too many companies overlook the importance of securely disposing of not only old paper records but also outdated hard drives and digital storage devices, which leaves them exposed to data breaches, identity theft, and fines.”
5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Business Secure:
- Conduct Regular Document and Data Audits: Review your filing systems and digital storage quarterly to identify old records and electronic devices that are no longer needed.
- Shred, Don’t Store: If your business is still holding onto years of old paperwork and computers in a storage room or warehouse, it may be time for a purge.
- Ensure Employee Training on Document Security: Make document and digital security a part of your employee training.
- Schedule Routine Shredding Services: Don’t wait for data to pile up. Schedule regular document shredding and hard drive destruction services to ensure both physical and electronic information is securely destroyed.
- Partner with a Trusted Shredding and Destruction Service: Choose a NAID-certified company like CI Information Management that uses secure processes to destroy both physical documents and digital storage devices.
CI Information Management, based right here in Eastern Washington, provides secure document destruction services designed to meet the unique needs of local businesses. Whether you need a one-time purge or regular shredding, our experienced and certified team handles it all with care, protecting your business from the risks of data breaches and identity theft.
“Our goal is to help businesses in Eastern Washington take simple, affordable steps to enhance their security and protect their clients,” says Miracle Lewis. “With both document shredding and hard drive destruction, we make sure your business stays safe—whether it’s from old paper records or outdated digital devices.”
