e-Scrap Destruction

e-Scrap Destruction's Tips

Do you know how many electronic devices and computer equipment are stored in attics, warehouses and store rooms in the USA and Canada? Over three-quarters of all computers purchased in the United States are in storage now. These devices pose security risks, health risks and environmental risks. They can be stolen and information can be retrieved from them. They are filled with toxic, sensitive materials that can cause health problems. If you dispose of them in a landfill, they can be discovered by criminals, environmental agents, or can hurt the environment, and these devices can easily be traced back to you or your business.

Face it, new technology comes out every month, rendering old equipment obsolete. The average computer has a lifespan of less than 2 years. Eventually the old equipment has to go somewhere, but proper disposal is not only mandated by the law, it is necessary to protect you or your company. Almost 10 million Americans were affected by identity theft in 2009 alone, causing nearly $50 billion in damages, and this trend is rising and will for the foreseeable future.

When getting rid of wireless devices, cell phones, computer hard drives, video games, CD's, DVD's, and other electronic devices and electronic media, the information they contain and the environment must be protected. HIPAA, FACTA, and Gramm-Leach-Bliley require information protection, and heavy fines can be levied against consumer, individuals, businesses, and organizations that improperly dispose of electronic media.

Do not simply dispose of electronic devices by throwing them in the garbage or taking them to the dump. This is a completely dangerous proposition. These devices can be found by anyone and the information inside them can be easily recovered. Here are a few reasons why you should protect all information that can be found inside electronic devices, aside from preventing identity theft:

The HIPAA Act of 1996:

This act establishes the standards for protecting personally identifiable information, the average penalty for violating this Act is $27,500.

The Gramm-Leach Bliley Act of 1999:

This act includes provisions that require all financial institutions to create, maintain and disclose personal information safeguards to protect customers.

At e-Scrap Destruction we help private citizens, corporations, municipalities and government organizations alike to properly dispose of electronic and media devices to help protect information that is so important today, to help protect from identity theft and to help protect the environment.