National Community Shred Campaign Saturday
Identity theft is the fastest growing form of consumer fraud in North America. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), identity theft affects as many as 10 million Americans each year. The FTC estimates that the average individual victim of identity theft spends 200 to 600 hours and approximately $1,500 to restore their identity.
Shred-it and Crime Stoppers USA will bring expertise to Office Depot stores to help people take action against identity theft and fraud. Shred-it mobile shredding trucks will be on site and consumers are invited to bring all the documents they can carry for shredding. Representatives from Crime Stoppers will offer tips and advice on how to protect yourself against identity theft and to collect voluntary donations that will benefit the local Crime Stoppers programs in each community.
"The best safeguard against personal identity theft is to regularly destroy confidential personal and business documents," said Greg Brophy, president and CEO of Shred-it. "We help our clients protect themselves and their customers every day by destroying documents that are no longer needed. Organizing Community Shred events across America raises awareness about the dangers of identity theft and fraud and encourages consumers and businesses to take the necessary steps to protect themselves from these crimes."
"Crime Stoppers USA is very excited to work together again this year with Shred-it, and for the first time with Office Depot, to promote community safety," added Elaine Cloyd, national president of Crime Stoppers.