Better Business Bureau announced today a nationwide “Secure Your ID” Day to be held on Saturday, April 17, 2010. Individuals and small businesses are encouraged to stop at one of 55 locations across North America set up by BBB for free document shredding. BBB staff will also be on site to provide expert advice and tips for identity theft protection.
Identity theft continues to be a growing problem. Last year alone, 11.1 million Americans became victims of ID theft, a 12 percent increase over the previous year, according to a 2010 report from Javelin Strategy and Research.
“We all lead busy lives and fighting identity theft doesn’t always make it onto our list of priorities even though it is extremely important,” said Kim States, BBB President. “That’s why BBB is making it easy this Spring to get rid of outdated tax documents and other personal information while learning how to protect yourself and your family from ID thieves throughout the rest of the year.”
The National Association for Information Destruction is a National Partner for “Secure Your ID” Day and will provide document shredding at many local events. Select locations will also provide free, secure disposal of computers and cell phones. Information on local events including times, locations and available services can be found at http://www.bbb.org/us/secure-your-id-participants/.
As the result of two nationwide “Secure Your ID” Days in 2009, BBB helped individuals and small businesses at more than 133 sites across the country shred 1.3 million pounds of sensitive documents—all for free. For more information on BBB “Secure Your ID” Day and identity theft prevention measures for both consumers and businesses, visit: www.bbb.org/us/secureID.
