Secure document storage is essential for anyone who has documents they can’t afford to lose. Thankfully, there are many options available to protect sensitive data from environmental damage. Some of the most popular methods include physical and digital storage.
The majority of people keep their most important documents in the filing cabinet at home or in a box that is locked. A small safe with a lock could offer extra protection to the most important documents like birth and marriage certificates, passports, Social Security cards, house deeds and insurance policies. These safes are built to withstand extreme temperatures and fire-related water damage. They usually come with a high-quality lock that is able to be able to withstand the force of prying or dislodging. Some safes have a special design that insulates their interior to protect against heat damage to documents.
Some people choose to go digital and create secure folders on their computer or on an external drive. This can help reduce the amount of clutter, make it easier to access and has an added benefit of encrypting the file and tracking who has seen it. Digital storage can be more affordable and reliable than the paper alternatives.
For those who require an extra layer of safety it is a great idea to place the documents in protective sleeves or containers made from archive material. These materials are lignin-free, which makes them last longer. You can also keep your documents in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them safe from heat and moisture.