AARP New York hosts series of free shredding events

To help combat the threat of scams and identity theft, AARP New York is hosting a series of free document shredding events at locations throughout Long Island.

Fraud and identity theft continue to pose a growing threat to older New Yorkers, with New Yorkers age 60 and older losing $408 million to scams last year, a $151 million increase from the year before, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

An AARP report also highlights risky behaviors that can expose consumers to fraud, including answering unsolicited calls or texts, reusing passwords, downloading free apps, and limited use of multifactor authentication. 

“Too often, financial exploitation begins with information that should never fall into the wrong hands,” said Beth Finkel, AARP New York State director. “Safely disposing of documents with personal or financial details is a simple but powerful step people can take to protect themselves and their families, particularly older New Yorkers who are being targeted and losing money at alarming rates.” 

AARP New York continued its anti-fraud effort Friday with a free shredding event at the Freeport Recreation Center in Freeport, giving residents a secure way to destroy sensitive documents. The event is part of AARP New York’s long‑running statewide shredding initiative, now in its 12th year, with more than two dozen communities participating in 2026. 

The next event in Nassau County is scheduled for May 2 at the Clinton G. Martin Park in New Hyde Park.

Shredding events are held outdoors; some are walk-up, and some are drive-thru. Those wishing to attend the shredding events must limit materials to three bags. The events conclude when the on-site trucks are full, but the sites may close early if trucks fill up. Paper only and no magazines, newspapers, books, or cardboard. Shredding services are free and open to the public.   Visit  aarp.org/NYStopScams for exact dates, times and locations.