AARP Virginia Fraud Alert: Shred Instead

There are many things that we can do to protect ourselves from identity thieves. We can use strong and unique passwords, keep our device operating systems current, and monitor our credit reports. If you want to keep thieves out of your recycling bin, you’ll also want to make sure to shred your sensitive documents. Despite all of the online crimes out there, criminals won’t hesitate to dumpster dive for valuable sensitive personal information. Shredding continues to be an important step in preventing identity fraud.

If you shred papers yourself, a micro-cut shredder offers enhanced security. Otherwise look for businesses that offer shredding (for a fee) or keep an eye you for free shredding events, often offered by nonprofits of local government agencies. Another important protection against identity theft is placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports. Learn how to take these free steps at annualcreditreport.com.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 1-877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.

With about 1 million members in Virginia, AARP is the largest organization working on behalf of people age 50-plus and their families in the Commonwealth. To learn more about how AARP Virginia is working in your community, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aarpvirginia and follow @AARPVa on X at www.X.com/aarpva.

 

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 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 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.