Columbia Hosts Holiday Shred Event to Combat Identity Theft This December

Columbia Takes Action Against Identity Theft This December

Columbia, S.C. — The holiday season has officially kicked off, and while it’s a time for celebration, it’s also Identity Theft Awareness Month. With family and friends visiting, it’s easy to get caught up in the festive cheer and forget about safeguarding your sensitive information. But don’t worry, the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) is here to help you stay on top of your game!

Holiday Shred Event: Keep Your Information Secure

Got old documents just lying around? You know the ones – those bank statements or tax documents that you know you shouldn’t just toss in the trash. On Monday, December 2, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the SCDCA will be hosting a drive-through holiday shred event right in their parking lot located at 293 Greystone Blvd.. This is your chance to shred those sensitive documents securely without having to leave your car!

But that’s not all! This is also an opportunity to give back during the holiday season. While you’re getting rid of your old papers, consider bringing a donation for Harvest Hope Food Bank. They are always in need of food items, particularly canned meats, soups, vegetables (especially those with pop-top lids), peanut butter, jelly, cereal, pasta, rice, and even some paper goods. What a wonderful way to help those in need while protecting your personal information!

Shredding Details: What You Need to Know

When you pull up to the event, keep in mind that each vehicle will be limited to shredding three boxes (think standard copier paper box size or smaller) or three bags (think of those small kitchen trash bags you use). And no need to get all fussy about removing staples, paper clips, or even rubber bands! Just toss them in, and we’ll take care of the shredding for you. Plus, if you have any old CDs or DVDs lying around, those can go in the shredder too!

Knowledge is Power: Free Webinars for December

But wait, there’s more! Throughout December, SCDCA is hosting a series of free webinars designed to help both consumers and businesses learn how to protect their information from would-be identity thieves. This is a fantastic opportunity to arm yourself with knowledge and strategies that can make a significant difference in keeping your information safe. To join in on one of these informative sessions, just click on the registration links provided by SCDCA.

Need Help? SCDCA is Here for You!

If you suspect you might be a victim of identity theft, or if you have questions on the topic, don’t hesitate to reach out. The SCDCA’s Identity Theft Unit can provide valuable assistance. Just give them a call at 1-800-922-1594 or fill out an ID Theft Intake form online. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially during such a busy time of year.

Wrap Up Your Holiday Season Safely and Securely

So, Columbia, as the holiday season flares up, and your home fills with joy and laughter, make sure you also take a moment to secure your personal information. Participate in the shredding event, drop off a food donation, and take advantage of the free webinars. Together, let’s work to make our community a safer place from identity theft this December!