With identity theft and other types of information fraud on the rise, it’s important to know that the way you shred your confidential information can make a big difference. When the process is not completely secure you run the risk of your sensitive materials getting in the wrong hands. You open yourself up to negative consequences including sanctions, fines, fraud, disclosure of trade secrets and bad publicity. That’s why it’s important to work with a NAID AAA certified shredding company. NAID AAA certification signifies the company adheres to the highest security and ethics standards in the information destruction industry.

What is NAID?

NAID is the National Association of Information Destruction. This international association sets information destruction standards for both paper and electronic data. NAID acts as a consumer protection organization that audits the qualifications of information destruction service providers around the world. It also conducts research to improve processes and works to create wider recognition of the information destruction industry.

What is NAID AAA Certification?

NAID AAA certification verifies that a service provider meets stringent qualifications for secure information destruction. The certification specifications pertain to more than 20 areas of operational and security requirements including particle size, transport, video surveillance, access control, employee screening and training, and written policies and procedures. Here is information taken directly from the NAID website about AAA certification:

• NAID certification auditors verify that protocols are in place to ensure the security of confidential material throughout all stages of the destruction process such as handling, transporting, storing materials prior to destruction, and destroying and disposing of materials responsibly.
• An extensive, three-level background screening process verifies that no individual with a known history of related crimes will be handling confidential material.
• A regimented, comprehensive unannounced audit program means that certified companies operate knowing they may receive an unannounced audit on any day, at anytime, providing a powerful motivator for ongoing compliance.

What is the benefit of NAID AAA certification?

When you work with a NAID AAA certified company you know that your information destruction meets strict requirements. If you ever need to present proof that your confidential records are destroyed in compliance with information industry regulations you can validate that you’ve taken the proper steps to comply. This reduces your risk and liability and can be used as proof that you demonstrated “good faith” efforts to ensure confidentiality in your record management in the event of a lawsuit or audit. It’s important to note that being a member of NAID does not automatically mean a company is AAA certified. Only AAA certified companies have completed the audit that verifies compliance with NAID’s rigorous standards. For more details download the NAID AAA Certification Program factsheet. If you’re not sure that a company is AAA certified, you can ask the service provider for verification, or consult the NAID directory. DocuVault is NAID AAA certified. You can count on us for secure document shredding and electronic data destruction every step of the way.