A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable code for shredding objects. The apparatus has a number of components including a receptacle that is configured to receive objects. A shredding unit is connected to the receptacle, wherein the shredding unit selectively destroys the objects placed into the receptacle. An object detector is used to detect the presence of an object in the receptacle. An object identifier identifies objects placed into the receptacle. The apparatus also has a memory and a connector. The connector is used to establish a communications link with a data processing system. A controller in the apparatus stores identifications of objects identified by the object identifier in the memory and sends a signal to the shredding unit to control shredding of the objects.