Since tax documents contain some of the most identifying information, AARP Long Island joined JVC Broadcasting on Saturday at a free shredding event hosted by Island Federal Credit Union.
This collaboration is part of AARP Long Island’s efforts to help New Yorkers safely dispose of their outdated personal papers. Five JVC Broadcasting’s shred events will be held on Long Island. In addition, AARP New York is hosting 28 paper-shredding events throughout the state until May 18, 2024, to coincide with spring cleaning and after taxes are filed.
“We are committed to offering these free opportunities so that New Yorkers will feel empowered to fight back against criminals, who grow more and more sophisticated,” said Beth Finkel, AARP New York State Director. “Fraud reports are surging. In 2023, there were 260,000 incidents of fraud throughout the state, according to the Federal Trade Commission. That’s at a cost of $401 million. We’re here to prevent more. Shredding documents is a good first step to destroy documents with identifying information.”
“JVC Broadcasting radio stations are honored to be hosting the 3rd Annual Free Shredding Events Presented by AARP Long Islad and held at the branches of our great partners Island Federal Credit Union,” said Patricia Jarmek, Regional Sales Manager for JVC Broadcasting. “We will continue to help people fight back against fraud and identity theft by shredding sensitive and personal documents by offering these five free shred events.”
“Island Federal Credit Union is proud to join forces with AARP Long Island to offer a series of shredding events providing free, safe disposal of personal documents. Both organizations prioritize safety, security, and service. It’s a strong collaboration that can instill trust and confidence among members of both organizations,” said Chris Murray, VP/Marketing, Island Federal Credit Union.
"My office is committed to safeguarding our seniors against the clutches of fraud and that is why we are honored to be a part of this program sponsored by AARP. These programs provide our senior community with a formidable weapon to combat thieves preying on the elderly because every shred is a shield and every document destroyed thwarts a predatory scammer,” said Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney. “Targeting our seniors for fraud is not just a crime, it is an assault on our values. These events show we stand united in protecting our elders, ensuring they live out their golden years with dignity, not deception."
Criminals are innovative and constantly changing their methods. To slow them down, prevention is key. And knowledge gives individuals power over scammers. AARP will also provide resources during the events to educate consumers about fraud.
Shredding events are held outdoors; some are walk-up and some are drive-thru. All events will be open to the public. Visit aarp.org/NYStopScams for exact dates, times and locations.
Those wishing to attend the shredding events must limit materials to three bags. The events conclude when the on-site trucks are full, but the sites may close early if trucks fill up. Paper only and no magazines, newspapers, books, or cardboard. Shredding services are free and open to the public.
Here’s a spring-cleaning checklist from security experts to rid your home of paper with sensitive info:
- Old documents: Papers that carry your Social Security number, birthdate, signature, account numbers, passwords or PIN numbers.
- Banking: Canceled or unused checks. Shred deposit slips and ATM and credit card receipts
- Credit Cards: Preapproved credit card applications and incentive/gift checks from credit card companies.
- Medical: Unneeded medical bills.
- Investments: Investment account statements.
- Obsolete ID cards: Expired driver’s licenses, medical insurance cards and passports.
More information on how to keep yourself safe from identity theft fraud, and alerts regarding other types of scams, is available from the Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/FraudWatchNetwork.
Connect with AARP New York on X: @AARPNY and Facebook: AARP New York
About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.
Shredding services will be performed by a third party. All documents and information provided for shredding are subject to that party’s privacy and informational security policies.