Why You Shouldn’t Skip Shredding for Data Leak Prevention
You face enough tasks during the week. For example, it is easy to toss old files or hold on to outdated devices without a second thought. However, businesses that skip secure data destruction face serious consequences like data breaches, compliance violations, public backlash, and long-term reputation damage.
This small oversight can cost a high price. Therefore, to prove it’s not just a hypothetical risk, here are three real-world examples from Minnesota and Fargo. These examples show what happens when you skip secure data destruction.
1. Family HealthCare Center Breach in Fargo, ND
Fargo’s Family HealthCare Center suffered a data breach in late 2022. The breach linked to its third-party tax provider, Brady Martz & Associates. Sensitive employee and patient information included names, Social Security numbers, and financial details. While the vendor caused the breach, the healthcare provider bore the responsibility and consequences.
This incident shows why businesses need strict data destruction protocols. They need them internally and with partners. So, securely destroying sensitive files prevents costly breaches.
2. Clay County Social Services Ransomware Attack in Moorhead, MN
Clay County’s Caseworks system in Moorhead, MN, faced a ransomware attack in October 2023. The attack exposed sensitive personal information across 18 Minnesota counties. The data included full names, birthdates, and Social Security numbers. It also included information from digital case files.
Outdated case information stayed on old legacy digital files. They did not get destroyed properly. This made the breach worse. Consequently, the case shows how keeping digital records without secure destruction protocols leaves sensitive data vulnerable to theft. This happens even if files are not active.
3. Minnesota Department of Education MOVEit Breach
The Minnesota Department of Education experienced a data breach in June 2023. A vulnerability in the MOVEit file-transfer platform caused it. The incident exposed records for nearly 95,000 foster students statewide. The records included names, birthdates, and counties of residence. They stayed in outdated transfer files.
Sensitive information remained stored in systems. They did not get purged or securely destroyed regularly. This caused the breach. Thus, a plan to dispose of old digital records properly could have avoided it. This would reduce risk in cyberattacks.
Don’t Make the Same Mistake for Data Leak Prevention
Active secure data destruction could prevent each data breach. For instance, paper documents, hard drives, or USB sticks must get destroyed properly. They contain sensitive information.
Failing this exposes your business to identity theft and costly regulatory fines. It also causes lasting reputation damage.
CBS, a Division of ABM, helps businesses across Minnesota and Fargo protect data. We use:
- AAA NAID Certified shredding services
- Secure on-site and off-site document and media destruction
- Hard drive and digital media disposal
- Full chain of custody documentation for compliance and peace of mind
Take Action Now for Business Data Security
- Book Your Free Destruction Services Review
Our experts will assess your risks. They will create a plan that protects your people, data, and bottom line.
Email: dernel.denning@abmnow.com - First-Time Client? Ask About Our Intro Discount
Available for businesses across Central North Dakota - Need a Pickup or Quote?
Use our secure online form at abmnow.com/destruction-services. We’ll handle the rest.
Trust CBS to help you avoid costly data mistakes. Because the best way to handle a data leak is to prevent it.