Scams & Fraud

Consumers can prevent scams by shredding sensitive documents

New York reported more than 51,000 incidents of identity theft in 2023, according to Federal Trade Commission data.

AARP Long Island is hosting two events to help residents safely dispose of unneeded medications and to shred sensitive documents.

Free shredding events and tips to securely destroy sensitive documents to help consumers protect themselves

Securely disposing of documents that contain your personal information—such as bank statements, canceled checks, receipts and credit-card junk mail—is one way to avoid becoming a fraud victim.

Deep within the internet is the Dark Web, a space where criminals can anonymously buy and sell illegal goods and private information. Known as the “Internet Godfather,” Brett Johnson created one of the dark web’s first online stores where criminals and scammers can anonymously sell illegal goods and private information. Eventually, he was caught and convicted. Now, after serving seven years in prison, Brett works to stop criminal enterprise and consults for the Secret Service and the cybersecurity industry.

Even during these turbulent times, it's important that we are staying safe and vigilant from scammers. AARPNY wants to ensure that you have all of the relevant information about coronavirus scams so you know what to look out for and how to best protect your family.

“Operation: Stop Scams” Helps New Yorkers Fight Back Against Identity Theft and Fraud; Today’s Manhattan Event First of 20+ from Buffalo to Long Island

Want to safely dispose of sensitive documents and prevent identity theft? Check out AARP New York’s Operation Stop Scams, a series of document-shredding events being held statewide.

Every Two Seconds, Someone’s Identity is Stolen. New Yorkers Can Fight Back Against Fraud at 20+ Shredding Events Across State