Document shredding to be offered Wednesday
For the fourth consecutive year, the Federal Trade Commission released figures showing Florida continues to lead the nation in identity theft complaints. This not-so-dubious distinction means there is a very good chance you could be the next identity theft victim, officials with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office said Monday.
To help combat “the fastest growing crime of the 21st century,” the Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to participate in a community wide shred event sponsored by the Lee Elder Abuse Partnership Program on Wednesday, April 22. Secure on-site shredding will be available at the Big John’s Plaza in Cape Coral from 9-11a.m., and the Lee County Election Center (across from the Bell Tower) from 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Identity theft can happen in a variety of ways, including old-fashioned “Dumpster diving,” officials said in a release.
“It’s not uncommon for thieves to dig through trash looking for personal information that can be used to destroy your credit, your name, and your financial future,” the release states.
Not sure what to shred? Below are documents the Sheriff’s Office says are shred worthy:
* Bank statements, ATM receipts, canceled or voided checks
* Driver’s licenses, identification cards, all picture ID’s
* Expired credit cards, credit card bills, carbon copies, summaries and receipts
* Documents containing maiden names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, pin number and investment information.
* Medical and dental records
* Credit scores
* Pay stubs
* Resumes
* Tax forms
* Report cards
* Utility bills
* Travel itineraries, airplane ticket stubs, luggage tags
For additional information about LEAPP’s shred event, call United Way 211 (239) 433-3900. If you have questions about Identity Theft, or wish to report a scam or fraud, contact the Sheriff’s Office Fraud Line at 258-3292.
Source: Lee County Sheriff’s Office