Types of shredding security levels
When your documents are shredded, it is important that the type of shredding carried out is appropriate for the kind of document you are seeking to destroy.
There are six standards for the security levels of shredders in accordance with DIN 32757, the European standard for paper shredder security. They start at DIN 1 which is the lowest level of shredding, and end at DIN 6 which is the highest level.
DIN 1
Maximum permitted strip width = 12mm; Maximum particle size = 11 x 40mm
Uses: Suitable for low-level personal items that do not require a high level of security and that do not carry sensitive data that can be acquired by identity fraudsters.
DIN 2
Maximum permitted strip width = 6mm; Maximum particle size 8 x 40mm
Uses: Suitable for the destruction of personal items that may carry sensitive data which could be used for identity theft. Examples include bank statements, utility bills, travel documents, etc. Can also be used by organisations with low-level data that is not sensitive.
DIN 3
Maximum permitted strip width = 2mm; Maximum particle size 4 x 30mm
Uses: This is the minimum security level recommend for destroying personal documents that contain sensitive information. It is minimum security level for destroying documents that contain sensitive information such as salaries, payroll, accounts, customer details, marketing strategy, personnel records, etc.
DIN 4
Maximum permitted particle size 2 x 15mm
Uses: This is the security level recommended for destroying highly confidential commercial information. It is suitable for the destruction of board reports, highly sensitive business plans, new product or services, acquisition plans, etc.
DIN 5
Maximum permitted particle size 0.8 x 12mmUses: For the destruction of highly confidential or secret material, this is commonly used by banks, international companies, Governments, weapons manufacturers, etc.
DIN 6
Maximum permitted particle size 0.8 x 4mmThis is the highest level of security possible and is designed for the disposal of top-secret material. It is used by the military, Government, civil service , etc.