What is one method for disposing of records according to regulations?

The correct method for disposing of records according to regulations is incinerating or shredding paper records. This approach ensures that sensitive information is destroyed in a manner that prevents unauthorized access and protects the privacy of individuals whose data is contained in those records. Both incineration and shredding are effective in rendering the documents irretrievable and unreadable, thereby minimizing the risk of data breaches and identity theft.

Other methods, while beneficial for managing records, do not fulfill the stringent requirements for disposal. For example, storing records in a locked file cabinet does not destroy the information and thus leaves it susceptible to unauthorized access. Archiving on external hard drives may also preserve data rather than disposing of it, which means it can still be accessed if not adequately secured. Purging from electronic systems is critical for maintaining data hygiene, but it typically relates to the removal of electronic records from operational use rather than the complete destruction of the data, which is necessary for compliance with specific regulatory standards governing the disposal of records.