Trash

Safeguarding Your Trash From Identity-Related Trash Talk

When it comes to your garbage, one man’s trash can quickly turn into an identity thief’s treasure. Follow these hints to keep your trash safe from prying eyes.

1. Invest in a high-quality crosscut shredder.

2. Shred everything that has your name and address on it, including statements and invoices you don't need to keep, all receipts, return address stickers, envelopes, catalogs, neighborhood association lists, and pre-approved credit offers.

3. Vet shredding services. Make sure that any shredding services you use at work take the same amount of care to destroy sensitive documents as you do.

4. Take your trash out on the same morning that your removal services are scheduled to come. Don't give thieves time to go through your trash and find any personal information left behind.

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