A young woman adds shredded documents to her recycling bin.

5 Ways to Keep Your Identity Safe from Dumpster-Diving Thieves

Last Updated: October 9, 2024
3 min read

Key Points:

  1. Identity thieves can access your information in several ways, including going through your trash to find important documents and discarded electronics.

  2. Before you discard anything, make sure you shred any documents, wipe the hardware off all electronics, and avoid tossing sensitive information in public receptacles.

  3. Discover® Identity Theft Protection offers fraud security for all Discover® Cardmembers.

For most of us, the trash seems like the perfect place where discarded items never return. But for an identity thief, garbage and recycling bins are treasure troves of invaluable personal information.

Every day, our mailbox fills with bank and credit card statements, pre-approval offers, utility bills, letters from the IRS, and a whole host of other items. But should you trash these items? In reality, these documents can mean your money and identity are at risk when they fall into the wrong hands.

Luckily, there are five simple ways to keep your identity secure.

1. Shred it

Making your information illegible to would-be thieves is one of the best ways to help prevent identity theft. You should tear up any documents that contain confidential information. This includes sensitive documents that include financial data, like credit card statements or solicitations. Whether you use a professional shredding company, a personal shredder, or your bare hands and brute strength—rip it, cut it, shred it, or tear it before you toss it.

2. Take it with you

It may seem convenient to leave a gas station or ATM receipt in the trash can at that location rather than put yet another piece of paper in your wallet or car. But identity thieves can go dumpster diving and transform these scrap piles into money—your money—and your identity.

Be sure to take receipts with you and discard of them responsibly once you get home.

3. Dispose of credit card offers

Sure, a pre-approval for a new credit card or a personal loan might be flattering or even cause for daydreams. But these offers carry a cost with them. Namely, a higher risk of identity theft. According to the US Department of Justice, “criminals may retrieve them (pre-approvals) and try to activate the cards for their use without your knowledge.”

Shredding such offers is just as important as destroying bank statements. You can also opt out of pre-approvals to further reduce your risk of identity theft

4. Destroy old electronic devices

It’s great when you finally get that new laptop, phone, or tablet, and the old one is ready for the donation bin. But before you part with any electronics (e-waste or e-junk), be sure you delete all information on the hard drive and restore to factory settings.

Destroying e-waste doesn’t just mean deleting your files. The Federal Trade Commission suggests backing up your information, erasing your hard drive, and disposing of your computer.

This personal data could include website passwords to your bank accounts or credit cards. You might have your medical and prescription information saved or old tax returns stored in forgotten folders. Identity thieves could easily exploit this and other information.

You might need to install a program from the device manufacturer that will transfer all data from the old technology to the new. This will ensure your hardware is completely clean. If you have any issues, you may want to consult a licensed expert to ensure your piece of technology is safe to dispose of, resell, or donate.

5. Keep informed about your personal data

Identity theft is no laughing matter, but that doesn’t mean you have to live your life in constant worry. Many financial institutions monitor your information to keep it safe from identity thieves. If you’re unsure whether you’re covered for fraud, it may be a good idea to check with your credit card company.

Did you know?

Discover Identity Theft Protection includes extensive identity, SSN, and Dark Web monitoring, all with 100% U.S.-based Fraud Resolution Specialists and up to $1MM identity theft insurance–for legal expenses, reimbursement of stolen funds, lost wages and more covered expenses.1

It’s also a good idea to watch your credit report for changes in account information and suspicious activity (like new accounts you didn’t open). Federal law allows consumers to receive one free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit reporting agencies. And, beyond this law, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that the three credit bureaus have permanently extended the program to include one free report per week.

You can request your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com (the only website authorized by the federal government). Additionally, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, you can ask for a free credit report within 60 days of being denied credit.

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  1. Identity Theft Protection: Identity Theft Insurance underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. The description herein is a summary and intended for informational purposes only and does not include all terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for terms, conditions, and exclusions of coverage. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions.

    This product can only be agreed upon, purchased and delivered online. It is optional and voluntary.

  • Legal Disclaimer: This site is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. The material on this site is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and does not indicate the availability of any Discover product or service. It does not guarantee that Discover offers or endorses a product or service. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional.