Determining which documents an individual or business should retain or destroy is a major decision.  Some reasoning is common sense such as customer lists and other trade secrets but both state and federal governments have become active in establishing rules and laws which give guidance.  All SureShred clients are encouraged to seek counsel from their accountant and/or attorney before establishing a retention policy.

 

Some of the primary laws regulating privacy and information disposal are:

Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act  (FACTA)

The Rule requires disposal practices by individuals and businesses that are reasonable and appropriate to prevent the unauthorized access to – or use of – information in a consumer report. 

 

See (http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2005/06/disposal.shtm)

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act  (HIPAA)

 A major goal of the Privacy Rule is to assure that individuals’ health information is properly protected while allowing the flow of health information needed to provide and promote high quality health care and to protect the public's health and well being.

 

See (http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacysummary.pdf)

National Association of Information Destructors -- Guidelines

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