A paper shredder is a device used to cut paper into small pieces, making it difficult to read or reconstruct the original documents. This is particularly useful for disposing of sensitive information, such as personal data or financial records, to protect against identity theft and unauthorized access. There are different types of paper shredders, including strip-cut, cross-cut, and micro-cut shredders. Each type varies in the size of the shredded pieces, with micro-cut shredders providing the highest level of security. Many shredders also have features like automatic feed and jam prevention for added convenience.