If a person has sufficient information about someone, alive or deceased, then they can use it for unlawful activities and to commit identity fraud. Examples of identity fraud includes opening bank accounts, obtaining credit cards, and getting state benefits in the victim's name, and even taking over another person's existing accounts. To combat identity fraud, businesses or organisations that deal with personal information ought to subscribe to professional document shredding services.

Professional document shredding services have specific ways of destroying documents in accordance with the Data Protection Act; as such, these documents are shredded to the point where it cannot be reconstructed again. The shredding is held in a secure off-site location and once documents are completely obliterated, data storage companies usually present the client with a certificate of destruction to inform them that the deed is done. Furthermore, the shredded paper pulp are disposed in an eco-friendly manner, so one need not worry about environmental concerns.

Identity fraud can happen to anyone if they aren't careful with their data. Organisations that deal with documentation, in particular, should always seek to protect the privacy of their clients. To achieve optimum data destruction, be sure to work only with the most reputable data storage companies. Always ask for references and research about the company's shredding process to learn more.