The survey of over 1,000 employees found that a third of UK workers throw sensitive documents in the bin instead of shredding them and 36% did not know or were unsure if they had a comprehensive policy in place on handling potentially sensitive documents.
Over 70% of employees - the highest figure in Europe - think the organisations they work for could do more to protect their customers' sensitive information.
a third of UK employees throw sensitive documents in the bin instead of shredding them
Every year identity fraud costs the UK economy in excess of £1bn but the ramifications of fraud can be further reaching than merely financial. Nearly half of all businesses fear the effect fraud can have on their reputations and losing valuable business if sensitive data is compromised.
"Businesses need to do more to inform their employees and reassure their customers that they are handling data responsibly. For example, it is shocking that nearly two in five employees still do not have access to shredders at work with which to destroy sensitive information," said Tyron Hill from Fellowes, a spokesperson for National Identity Fraud Prevention Week.
"Today's customers are more vigilant and informed when making decisions - businesses that are seen to do more to protect data are at a competitive advantage over those that aren't, which can directly affect a business' bottom line, especially during the recession. With the right resources, businesses and consumers can work together to ensure identities stay protected."
