Electronic documents, or eDocuments, are digital versions of physical documents that can be transmitted and stored electronically. In many cases, eDocuments offer several advantages over physical documents mailed or delivered in person. One of the primary benefits of eDocuments is they can be transmitted and accessed almost instantly, regardless of geographical location.
With home theft on the rise, and package thieves getting smarter and bolder, your mail is more at risk of being stolen more than ever. Stolen mail can lead to identity theft, which is stressful and challenging to overcome. While thieves can not gain much from your junk mail, your documents that contain more sensitive personal information like statements, mortgage documents, and other mail can provide thieves with everything they need to steal your identity and commit fraud.
eDocuments are generally more secure than physical documents mailed or delivered in person. eDocuments can be encrypted and password-protected, which can help prevent unauthorized access or tampering. In contrast, physical documents can be lost, stolen, or damaged during delivery, compromising the security of the information they contain. Additionally, eDocuments can be stored and backed up electronically, which helps ensure they are not lost or damaged.
By cutting out paper documents, not only will you be securing your sensitive personal information against theft, but you will save paper and reduce your carbon footprint. Switching to eDocuments will have the following environmental impact:
- Reduction of paper use: One of the most prominent environmental benefits of eDocuments is eliminating the need for paper. This can help reduce the number of trees harvested for paper production and the energy and water used to produce and process paper.
- Reduction of carbon emissions: The production and transportation of paper generate significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. By switching to eDocuments, businesses and individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and help mitigate the negative environmental impacts of paper production.
- Waste reduction: eDocuments can also help reduce waste, as they do not need to be thrown away or recycled like paper documents. This can help conserve resources and reduce the burden on landfill and recycling facilities.
There are, however, some potential drawbacks to using eDocuments. For example, they may require access to specialized software or hardware, which can inconvenience some users. Additionally, eDocuments may be more vulnerable to cyber attacks or data breaches than physical documents. However, the risk of these types of incidents is mitigated through proper security measures, and TDECU keeps your security as our number one priority.
When you enroll in eDocuments, you “cut out the middleman” and get your account balances and statements directly, online, or through your mobile device. Log into your account 24/7 to pay balances, check your account activity or even deposit checks from your phone! In conclusion, eDocuments can offer several advantages over physical documents that are mailed or delivered in person. They can be transmitted and accessed almost instantly, are generally more secure, and can be stored and backed up electronically.
To learn more about eDocuments and to enroll your accounts in a safer, more environmentally-friendly program, visit us at https://www.tdecu.org/digital-banking/e-documents/.
Whether you choose eDocuments to reduce your carbon footprint, or to keep your information safe, we are sure you’re making a great choice!