Data breaches happen all the time. While many companies focus more on securing their digital data, they forget that paper data is also critical. According to the 2015 BakerHostetler Incident Response Report, about one in five data breaches involve paper records. Secure shredding solutions can help destroy sensitive paper documents safely and protect your company and clients. Here are some of the most common forms of data breaching.

1. Physical Actions

Most of us think that data breaches only happen as a result of cybercrime. According to Verizon, many data breaches don't involve technology at all. Most physical incidents involve stealing materials used to access the data, including laptops, paperwork, phones, and other storage devices. That's why people are encouraged to store data in cloud storage and back it up. Institutions that use physical records must hire reliable companies that provide secure shredding to prevent data from landing in unauthorized hands.

2. Human Error

While it's humanly impossible not to make mistakes, some employees pose a risk to your data if they handle or misuse company information. This may happen when you give too much freedom to employees who may misuse the information, or when an employee is inadequately trained. If you fail to store your data correctly, the wrong people may stumble upon them. This is common in paper records or institutions where employees may share computers.

3. Malware

Malware or viruses are sent to company computers with the aim of wiping all data. This can harm companies such as hospitals that rely on data to operate. This could lead to problems in the normal running of the hospital, such as delayed treatments or even the patient's death.

4. Ransomware

This common cybercrime sends a sub-type of malware to your employee's computers, denying them access to data. They will then ask for a specific amount of money to decrypt the computer and give you access. This is a dangerous situation as you're dealing with a criminal, and paying the ransom doesn't guarantee you will get the data back.

5. Phishing

Phishing involves creating a site that looks incredibly genuine. Criminals can create a site like WISE or PayPal and request you to change some information urgently. If you log in, you end up giving the hacker your password.

Investing in safe data storage and secure shredding can help prevent data breaches. Contact our team today at ALL-SHRED, Inc to learn more about data breaches.