I am a Life Coach and take detailed notes of people lives. It is very private and personal. Recently, I was given this paper shredder and put it under a table in my office. A few clients have said that they feel better knowing that I am using care with the notes. This not only does paper, but CDs and credit cards too. I received a new chip debit card in the mail, so the first thing I used this shredder for was the old debit card. The pieces of this were cut op so small, I am sure this is secure. I went on to further test this with a newspaper. It went through easily- no jamming. It also had some great safety features. If the bottom drawer is not all the way in, the shredder does not work. It also has a reverse button if you need it too! I have received the item was free in exchange for your honest opinion.