Shopping has never been easier thanks to the emergence of e-commerce and online shopping sites like Lazada, Shopee, Temu, and Zalora. However, its convenience also comes with some added risks that can put your data into trouble if you’re unaware.
So, when it comes to online shopping, our personal data are commonly attached to the shipping labels (also known as waybills) that come with every box and parcel we receive.
What sensitive data are included in shipping labels?
Data privacy has been more crucial today and is even protected by law. So, we also must do our part to protect our sensitive personal data to ensure our information is safe in the physical and digital space.
Here are some of the sensitive data commonly included in shipping labels from online shopping, which may also vary from courier to courier:
- Name of the sender and recipient
- Address of the sender and recipient
- Contact details, like your phone number and email address
These information can be used for financial scams and identity theft, so read on and follow the tips below.
Reasons why you should shred your package’s shipping label
While it’s your responsibility to discard your shipping boxes and parcels, one thing you should include in your online shopping routine is to shred your shipping labels before throwing them away. This will help you ensure that your personal and sensitive information is safe.
See also: How to spot fake product reviews on the internet
You can cut your shipping labels into small pieces using scissors if you don’t have a shredder. However, if you want to save time and have the budget, you can buy a cheap shredder online for less than Php1,000. Then, use the shipping label that comes with it to test your new device.
Shredding your shipping labels into strips or pieces will make it difficult for people with malicious intentions to get your personal data.
Other ways to remove information from your shipping label
Aside from cutting and shredding, there are other ways you can hide or cover your personal information, like your name, address, and contact number on your shipping label or waybill. Here are some:
- Permanent Black Marker. You can use a permanent black marker, preferably with a broad tip, to mask and hide your information.
- Thermal Paper Correction Fluid. If the shipping label is printed on thermal paper, you can buy this correction fluid for less than Php100 to immediately erase the printed details. Alcohol and other alcohol-based products, like sanitizers, can also work.
- Privacy Roller Stamp. Another useful tool you can buy online is a privacy roller stamp that costs around Php200. You can use it to roll over your personal information while spreading random black marks.
Don’t let the excitement of a new package’s arrival make you forget to protect your personal details. Shred, cover, or erase them. Then, dispose of them properly by segregating and placing them in suitable recycling bins.
There are plenty of scammers out there that could easily take advantage of the sensitive information printed in the waybills, so it’s best to protect ourselves and always be aware of potential consequences.