How to Find a "Shred Day" Event
By Carolanne Chavanne, CFP®
Did you know that reported losses from fraud are on the rise, and more than $5.8 billion is lost each year to fraud?1 Because of this, it’s more important than ever to securely dispose of your confidential information. One way to do so is to attend a Shred Day event. Let’s look at the benefits of attending a shredding event and some tips on how to find one near you!
What is a Shred Day Event?
A Shred Day event is a community-driven initiative to provide individuals and businesses with an opportunity to securely dispose of sensitive documents by shredding them on site.2
These events are typically organized by local municipalities, businesses, or nonprofit organizations, and they offer a convenient and cost-effective way for people to protect their personal information from falling into the wrong hands.
Why Attend a Shred Day Event?
Shredding documents containing personal information, such as bank statements, medical records, and credit card statements, helps prevent identity theft. Criminals often sift through trash to find documents with valuable information, and shredding renders these documents unreadable.
In addition to being opportunities to protect your personal information, Shred Days also help the environment. Shredded paper is often recycled, so by participating in a Shred Day event, you not only protect your identity but also play a role in reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Lastly, many industries have specific regulations regarding the secure disposal of sensitive information. Attending a Shred Day event helps individuals and businesses stay compliant with privacy laws and regulations.
How to Find a Shred Day Event
If you have documents that need shredding, find a Shred Day event near you! Here are some tips for how to find one:
Check with Your Local Government and Municipalities
Start by checking with your local government or municipality. Many cities organize periodic Shred Day events to help residents dispose of sensitive documents securely. Visit the official website of your city, or contact the local government office to inquire about upcoming shred events.
Contact Your Financial Institution
Banks and credit unions often partner with shredding companies to organize Shred Day events for their customers. Check with your bank or financial institution to see if they have any upcoming shred events or if they can provide information on events in the community.
Ask Community Organizations and Nonprofits
Keep an eye on announcements from local community organizations and nonprofits. These groups sometimes collaborate to host Shred Day events as a service to the community. Check bulletin boards, community centers, or local newspapers for event details.
Check Online Event Platforms
Explore online event platforms and community websites. Websites like Eventbrite and Meetup, as well as community forums, often list upcoming events. Use relevant keywords, such as “shred event,” “document shredding,” or “secure disposal,” to narrow down your search.
Don’t Forget About Social Media
Leverage the power of social media to find Shred Day events in your area. Join local community groups on platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor, and inquire about upcoming shred events. Community members often share information about such events, making it easier for you to stay informed.
In a world where personal information is constantly at risk, attending a Shred Day event is a proactive step toward safeguarding your identity and promoting responsible document disposal. So, mark your calendar, gather those old documents, and contribute to a safer, more secure community. Shred it, don’t spread it!
This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.