PHILADELPHIA, April 29, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/
-- Over 24,000 pounds of paper were shredded today at a free
shredding event to help Philadelphians safely discard personal
information.
AARP, in collaboration with the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office, Philadelphia
Controller's Office, Councilwoman Cindy
Bass, Council Members At-Large Al Taubenberger, David Oh, and Derek
Green, and the Spanish American Law Enforcement Association,
hosted the event to protect consumers from falling victim to
identity thieves.
"Every two seconds someone's identity is stolen and shredding
events can help Philadelphians avoid becoming another identity
theft statistic," said Alan
Butkovitz, Philadelphia City Controller.
"Unfortunately, many consumers fall victim to fraud and identity
theft because of stolen or copied documents that contain their
personal information," said Philadelphia Sheriff Jewell Williams. "Joining with AARP to help
dispose of outdated information helps to ensure it's not used in a
malicious manner."
"We're doing our part to help consumers learn about fraud, avoid
scams, and to engage at the local level," stated Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State
Director. "Here in Philadelphia,
we've worked with city leadership to offer educational programs and
events like the 'Operation: Stop Scams' shredding service."
"Many people can't afford to buy an expensive paper shredder nor
access or pay the fees of a shredding service," stated Councilwoman
Cindy Bass. "These free events
provide a safe way to dispose of personal documents and clear out
bills, receipts and mail piling up in your home."
Consumers looking to purchase a shredder should opt for a
micro-cut shredder which makes it impossible for identity thieves
to reassemble the pages.
"We need to outsmart identity thieves because they are getting
better at committing fraud," stated Councilman Al Taubenberger. "With every new technological
development, financial fraud becomes more widespread and,
unfortunately, it can be crippling for victims, both financially
and emotionally."
"Many identity theft victims never find closure," said
Edwin Lopez, President of the
Spanish American Law Enforcement Association, citing the difficulty
of identifying and prosecuting fraudsters. "Law enforcement is here
to help, but it's up to you to protect your personal
information."
"Identity theft and fraud are prevailing threats for
Philadelphia's seniors. Last year,
38% of Pennsylvania's fraud
victims were between ages 50-69, and 34% of identity theft victims
were in the same range," said Councilman David Oh. "I thank the AARP for working to
better inform and protect our citizens."
CONTACT:
Jacklyn Isasi,
(267) 825-9928, jisasi@aarp.org
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SOURCE AARP Pennsylvania