Shred-a-Thon Monday

The County Attorney’s Office and Channel 12 have partnered with International Paper Phoenix Recycling to conduct a shred-a-thon on Monday.

Residents will be able to shred up to five boxes of documents for free between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. at 301 S. 30th S. in Phoenix.

Additional boxes will be $3 per box. Additional information is available at www.endIDtheft.com.

“A great first step in combating the crime of identity theft is the shredding of sensitive documents that no longer need to be kept stored in our homes and businesses,” said County Attorney Andrew Thomas.

The Maricopa County Attorney's Office is one of the first offices in the country to create a separate bureau dedicated to prosecuting fraud and identity theft. Here is a list of other recommended ways to prevent identity thieves from getting your vital information:

• Avoid giving out your Social Security number. Do not write it on checks or other documents unless it is required for services.

• Never give personal information, credit card numbers, PIN’s or social security numbers to someone over the telephone unless you placed the call.

• Use the Postal blue mailboxes to mail outgoing letters and pick up your mail promptly. Avoid using home mailboxes located at the street.

• Review and reconcile bank and credit card statements on a monthly basis.

• Do not do online banking or other password sensitive activities over a “wireless” network.

• Check credit bureau activity reports at least once a year, through all three major credit bureaus. Challenge any activity or information on it that is incorrect or unusual.