What to shred: 8 documents you should be shredding that you probably aren't

We all know it’s important to shred our most sensitive pieces of information—credit card statements or applications, tax-related documents, identity cards, etc. Knowing what to shred is key to keeping your identity protected, your finances secure, and your family safe.

Still, there are several often-overlooked items that could put you at risk if they aren’t also securely destroyed. If you forget to shred these documents, you’re not alone. But with the number of identity thefts and data breaches on the rise, it’s important to stay on top of your shredding habits.

Here are some documents that you should be shredding and why it’s important:

1. Junk mail

Junk mail comes in every day. Unfortunately, with so many data sources available to companies, your personal data may be included in those garbage mailers and credit card offers. Don’t toss the junk mail in the trash bin; shred it. Given merely your name, address, and a credit offer, someone could take out a line of credit in your name and spend money, leaving you on the hook. Junk mail should be shredded or, in the United States, you can opt out of junk mail and pre-screened credit offers through the Federal Trade Commission’s unsolicited mail page.

2. Medical prescription labels

Prescription labels contain private information, including your name, contact information, and doctor’s name. If not disposed of carefully, someone could use the information fraudulently to refill your prescriptions or get access to your healthcare information and medical background. So shred the paper documentation that comes with your prescriptions, and soak the empty bottles in water to remove the labels. Many pharmacies and recycling centers will accept used bottles.

3. Photos and old IDs

If you’re going through a box of old pictures, don’t just toss out the duplicates—shred them. Thieves can use your old pictures or IDs maliciously to fake their identity. When deciding what to shred, make sure your old pictures and identification are on the list.