The increase in identity theft and in turn identity fraud worldwide makes it important for both individuals and businesses to make certain that sensitive and private information is carefully and safely stored when it is needed, and completely destroyed when it is no longer needed. One of the best methods available for destroying sensitive information and documents is the use of a paper shredder. By shredding important documents, individuals and businesses alike can safeguard themselves against criminal access to these same files and records.

A paper shredder has the ability to shred a variety of documents, including credit card bills and receipts, bank statements, actual credit cards, checks, pay stubs, and photographs, to name a few.

Paper shredders are typically available in two forms: strip-cut and cross-cut. A strip-cut paper shredder cuts paper and documents into strips, as the name suggests. Typical strip sizes are about quarter of an inch in thickness. For the cost, this type of shredder can handle a high volume of sheets, and typically requires less maintenance than other types of shredders. This type of shredder is often perfect for small offices and documents that are less sensitive.

Cross-cut paper shredders are designed to cut paper and documents into small pieces instead of strips. This technique increases the level of security, while at the same time making it easier to deal with the waste. The small paper pieces are easier to dispose of than the longer strips, which can often take up a lot of space in a wastebasket.

Some paper shredders are designed to shred documents to a very fine level, and as such come complete with blades that are not very sturdy. In these cases, staples and paper clips can cause severe damage to the blades, and cause the shredder to work in a less efficient manner. To avoid this problem, most office elect to use a shredder that cuts strips into large pieces, as paper clips and staples are easily "eaten" by the larger, more sturdy blades.

Shredder oil and lubrication are other considerations that need to be made by any office manager looking to purchase a paper shredder. Since dust from shredded papers can often stick to the blades, using oil can keep the paper dust from accumulating. With the added lubrication, the movement from the blades can help push the paper dust through, easily increasing the efficiency of the paper shredder's blades.