Identity Theft and Mobile Document Shredding

The U.S. Department of Justice National Crime Victimization Survey defines identity theft as covering three categories of incidents. Attempted use or use of existing credit cards not authorized by another party is one category. Attempted use or use of existing accounts, including financial accounts, without authorization, is another type. Lastly, when someone uses someone's personal information to commit crime, obtain new accounts or conduct financial transactions this is theft of identity. All of these incidents are reasons why mobile document shredding can be a timely, handy crime-stopper.

Global Crisis of Fraud and Identity Theft

Identity theft is an international crime epidemic. The U.S. has countless organizations trying to stem the tides. In 2008, approximately 5% of people age 16 or over were victims of identity theft during a two-year period. This represents 11.7 million people, and approximately $17.3 billion. Twenty-three percent experienced direct monetary loss. For 3% percent of victims, damage continues beyond six months. One out of five victims reported their victimization as significantly distressing.

In 2007, 6.6% of American households reported a household members being the victim of identity theft. This widespread victimization spread to 7.9 million households, an increase of 23% from 2005 reports. The crime netted at least $500 in cash, services or goods.

In 2004, the U.S. Postal Service reported nearly 10 million identity theft incidents, costing consumer $5 billion. According to authorities, the primary method of theft is not online but offline. Online incidents accounted for approximately 12% of cases. Another possibly surprising fact is that half of identity thefts are committed by non-strange...

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...tial documents in a safe container in a discreet location. Keep critical documents in a safe deposit box at a financial institution, in a locked filing cabinet, box, or a safe at home or office. The storage container should be fireproof.

Mobile document shredding can be a convenient solution to protecting financial well-being. A regular security system can render records harmless and maintain personal security. Shredded documents can be safely hauled away. Shredded documents can also become useful as recycled material. Shredded documents can become bedding for animals including horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, and hamsters. The material can be used at home, given to neighbors, or to community organizations such as animal shelters. Kitty litter, stuffing for pillows, packing material, confetti, fire logs or bricks, and compost are other uses for recycled material.