8 Things Your Business Needs to Know About Device Shredding
Device shredding eliminates electronic devices holding critical data to ensure that your virtual waste is disposed of properly. With the mobile data shredding market worth $2.82 billion globally in 2020, this industry is growing in response to increasing attacks against businesses.
No business is free from having their data stolen. It’s why 1 in 15 people will experience some form of identity theft, and if that breach is traced back to you, your brand will suffer the consequences.
This guide presents eight things you need to know about electronic shredding and how to do it.
Why Should My Business Shred Electronic Waste?
The average data breach leads to a loss of 25,575 records, taking 279 days to discover that a breach has occurred. While most security efforts concentrate on cybersecurity, physical security is just as important. Some of the consequences of a data breach can include but are not limited to:- Fines – Up to $50,000 per breach is possible in legal and compliance penalties/fees.
- Revenue Loss – Businesses can lose a massive chunk of revenue.
- Disruption – Time is money; diverting resources to manage the fallout can destroy your ongoing operations.
- Loss of Reputation – Your customers may never trust you again if you are found responsible for a data breach.
- Bankruptcy – Did you know that 60% of companies that suffered a data breach were forced into bankruptcy? The loss of your business is a genuine possibility.
What Devices Can Be Shredded?
All electronic devices that house business data are candidates for shredding. Some of these devices include but are not limited to your:- Mobile phone
- Tablet
- Laptop
- Desktop computer
- Flash drive
- SSD hard drive
What’s the Best Way to Destroy Sensitive Files and Data?
More than just deleting the files is required because, with the right expertise, even deleted files can be recovered. When you delete a file, you only remove the “pointers” directing you to where it is. The actual data remains hidden but present. Alternatively, you may wonder whether DIY technology shredding works. Sadly, all standard DIY methods are ineffective and dangerous at guaranteeing the removal of all data 100% of the time. Some of the additional risks that come with DIY device shredding include:- Toxic fumes
- Burns
- Injury
Can My E-Waste Be Recycled?
Green credentials matter. If you are concerned about the environmental impact of your electronic assets, professional shredding services enable you to comply with your responsibilities. Approximately 99% of computer components can be recycled, with most storage devices comprising circuit boards, aluminum, and steel. Green shredding companies like Corodata always ensure that your e-waste is fully recycled.How Long Does the Destruction Process Take?
Modern shredding means the destruction process takes only a few minutes per item. Naturally, the size and number of the item(s) to be shredded will determine how long it takes. Note that shredding may take longer if you decide to have your devices shredded at our facility since we will need to transport them.Are There Any Alternatives to Device Shredding?
Shredding is only one of the destruction methods on the table. Several others exist. On the other hand, all the alternatives to shredded tablets and laptops either require specialized equipment or considerable time. The other options include:- Degaussing – These costly and technical devices use strong magnetic forces to scramble hard drive platters.
- Disintegration – Used by government agencies for destroying classified data, these devices use a conveyor belt and small knives to eviscerate electronic devices.
- Melting – Using acids like hydrochloric and nitric to melt electronic devices. Unfortunately, this is highly dangerous and is not environmentally friendly.
- Drilling – Putting a hole in an electronic device is effective, but it requires expertise and time to get it right. One mistake could make your data recoverable.
