Even if you haven’t personally had to deal with identity theft, I’m sure you know or have heard of someone that was affected. I was always very careful about what information was out there about me and tried to keep personal information stored away and unnecessary mail and documents finely cut in the garbage. I knew the dangers of identity theft and I didn’t want to be a victim.
Unfortunately a big percentage of Americans have to deal with their information being stolen and used against them. After all the time and effort I put in to protecting myself, I fell victim to credit card theft last month. Although my card was not actually stolen, the number was and was used on a shopping spree somewhere in California. The thief hit all the stores I typically shop in- children’s place, toys r us, and even rite aid. Luckily my credit card company knew my patterns and locked my card immediately after the first charge. I didn’t suffer any damages but I have been extra cautious to avoid this happening again.
I received a new Fellowes 63Cb shredder to review, and it couldn’t come at a better time. We just moved to a new home and I am eager to get organized and stay organized. All our important documents are filed away in a safe place and any mail items and preapproval letters for credit card companies are immediately shredded with the Fellowes shredder to ensure no one will get their hands on my information. It is so important to take these steps to make sure your personal documents don’t end up in the wrong hands.
Another way to prevent identity theft is to stay organized. Keep all your important documents filed away in a safe place, and stay on top of mail coming in. Shred anything that has your personal information on it, including your name and address. Look over all credit card statements as they come in and make sure that all charges are in fact yours. Remember- a thief doesn’t need to have your credit card to use your credit card number!
My favorite features of the Fellowes 63Cb shredder is the Jam Blocker. I confess, I have tried many times, some with success and some without, to place an unopened envelope full of credit card applications or pre-approval letters in the shredder. They get jammed just about every time. But that doesn’t stop me from doing it again. The Fellowes 63Cb was meant for me – it is very forgiving. If I put too much in the shredder, it immediately alerts me and I push the button to reverse the blades and pop the letters out so I can put in less next time around. Having two kids in the house means I am very conscious about unplugging the shredder each time I walk away from it, but in the event I forget, the 63Cb also has SafeSense technology which will automatically shut off when fingers are near the opening of the shredder. The Fellowes 63Cb shredder also features Energy Savings Technology. What are some features you are looking for in a shredder?