SCSU To Host Document Shredding Event

ST. CLOUD -- St. Cloud State University is hosting a document shredding event today (Saturday) at the SCSU Welcome Center.

From 9:00 a.m. to Noon people can drop off unwanted documents to be shredded on site as part of the Better Business Bureau's Secure Your ID Day.

The Better Business Bureau says, "over half of identity theft victims can trace the theft to something which was stolen from their possession."

You can drop off up to five boxes for shredding and enter for a chance to win a free document shredder.

Free refreshments will be provided. The event is free and open to the public and is being sponsored in part by Better Business Bureau and the Small Business Development Center.

See the Better Business Bureau's tips on how to protect youself against identity theft below .

Protection with electronic devices

• Use a password to protect your phone. This will help limit outside access to your device.
• Don't provide personal information to institutions calling to request information. Financial institutions should not reach out to you and request your information.
• Don't keep your account "auto-logged in" on your device.
• Delete old texts and email updates from your bank.
• File a report if your phone or tablet is lost or stolen.

Documents to keep vs. Shred

• Shred after three years: bank statements, expired insurance policies, employment applications, and more.
• Shred after seven years: invoices, cancelled stock certificates, payroll records, witholding statements, and more.
• Keep permanently: deeds, mortgages, tax returns, audit reports, insurance records, legal correspondence, property records, and more.