Many law firms now regularly utilize a paper shredder to destroy draft documents, old files, and other materials that are no longer necessary to keep all in furtherance of preserving client confidences. As more and more client information is stored on electronic media, however, the same confidentiality concerns arise and the paper shredder may not suffice. You can’t just simply toss an unwanted CD, DVD, or floppy disk into the trash. Those who may find it in the trash can too easily recover the information on the discarded media.

The solution is to destroy unwanted electronic media via a CD shredder if your current paper shredder is not up to the task. It’s quick, easy, affordable and thorough. For most law offices, a basic CD shredder that will handle 12 CDs or DVDs a minute and also shred floppy disks, credit cards and up to several sheets of paper at a time will be more than adequate. Basic CD shredders start at about $125. More robust shredders that can handle a heaver volume of paper or electronic media and also come with crosscut capabilities start at around $600 and go up from there.

There are a large number of products available. A Google search of “CD Shredders” will get you started and provide a long list of options. While this tip may be viewed as suggesting another office expense that wasn’t in the budget, I hope you’ll view this as a small investment when compared to the value of the information that you’re protecting.