What is a secure way to dispose of sensitive information?

Shredding physical documents is a secure way to dispose of sensitive information because it effectively renders the data unreadable and unusable. This process ensures that confidential data cannot be reconstructed or retrieved by unauthorized individuals, thereby protecting sensitive information from potential breaches or misuse.

When sensitive documents are shredded, the paper is cut into small pieces that are difficult to piece back together, minimizing the risk of identity theft or unauthorized access to personal or sensitive data. This method adheres to best practices for data security and is recommended for organizations handling sensitive information, including the Department of Defense.

In contrast, throwing sensitive information in regular trash, storing it without encryption, or leaving it in a public place all pose significant risks of data exposure. Regular trash can be easily accessed by anyone, and unencrypted electronic storage leaves data vulnerable to breaches, while public disposal makes it simple for malicious actors to find and exploit confidential information.