By now, many of us know we shouldn't give out personal information like social security numbers over the phone, should not "click through" emails offering big discounts, and should never let a stranger into our home. But there's another way identity thieves try to steal our personal information - by going through our trash.

March 4-10 is National Consumer Protection Week, and to help Rhode Islanders keep their confidential information safe, I'll be hosting free "shred-a-thons" throughout the state. Consumers will be able to drop off up to two "banker boxes" worth of documents for shredding. Last year our office held a series of shred-a-thons, and they were so successful that we have expanded the schedule this year to meet demand.

While the events are free of charge, we ask participants to consider bringing a non-perishable food item for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, as food pantries throughout the state are struggling to keep their shelves  stocked in the face of high demand. Representatives from the Food Bank  will be on-site to collect food items.

The full list of this year's shred-a-thons from our RI Attorney General Peter Kilmartin

http://www.riag.ri.gov/ncpw/

Local Shredding on March 9th and 10th at 9-11 am

Friday, March 9

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Cumberland Monastery Grounds

1464 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland

Saturday, March 10

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Office of the Attorney General

150 South Main Street, Providence