FACTA Disposal Rule Goes Into Effect June 1st; Businesses Need to Prepare to Destroy Discarded Employee Records.

ITASCA, Ill. -- June is quickly approaching, and the "Proper Disposal of Consumer Report Information and Records" provision of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA) will go into effect immediately. The provision requires businesses - even those that employ just one person - to properly dispose of a consumer report or any record derived from one. This includes data pulled from credit reports and credit scores.

Nearly 10 million people last year were victims of identity theft, according to the Federal Trade Commission. With these crimes showing no signs of weakening, FACTA is among many recent laws focused on protecting consumer and company privacy.

The FTC, according to the provision, generally recommends destroying or shredding records containing consumer information. Depending upon the volume of personal records, this method of destruction can be accomplished easily with the purchase of a shredder.

Fellowes, Inc., leading manufacturer of shredders for home and office use, offers the largest selection of innovative shredding solutions and is the brand more businesses rely on for superior performance and durability.

"With the recent heightened awareness of identity theft, more and more companies are buying shredders to protect their business," said John Fellowes, Shredder Marketing Manager, Fellowes, Inc. "Fellowes makes shredders that can safely shred staples, paper clips, credit cards and even compact discs - valuable features in today's information age."

Commercial cross-cut shredders, such as the Fellowes 320C and 480C, are ideal for large office and departmental use. These shredders accept 7,000 to 10,000 sheets per day and come with durable, all-steel Powershred(R) cutters. The quiet motor allows for use in common office areas, and the larger waste bins require less emptying.

Personal cross-cut shredders, such as the Fellowes PS-65C and SB-85C, are ideal for small departments and individual workspaces. The waste bin of the PS-65C features an opening indicating when it's full and a handle for easy emptying. Casters featured on the SB-85C allow for easy mobility and the flat top can be used for paper storage, while the front cabinet conveniently holds the instruction manual and oil. Designed to improve safe handling, the shredder is equipped with a Safety Lockout Feature that locks the machine when not in use.

For more information visit www.fellowes.com.