Other LanguagesTACOMA – More than 5,000 Washington residents become victims of identity theft each year according to reports from the Federal Trade Commission. That ranks Washington in the top 10 states for per capita victim reports. Attorney General Rob McKenna will visit Tacoma on Thursday, Aug. 30, to help raise awareness of identity theft prevention and assist the public in keeping sensitive documents out of the hands of crooks.
McKenna will lead a free public forum in the evening at Bates Technical College – South Campus. Consumers and small businesses are invited to bring sensitive documents to be destroyed for free by LeMay.
The visit is part of a 14-city statewide tour, “GUARD IT! Washington,” to educate business owners and consumers on how to keep their personal data safe. The campaign is a partnership of the Attorney General’s Office, Federal Trade Commission and AARP.
During the community forum, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to protect themselves and their families from identity theft and what to do if they become victims.
What: GUARD IT! Washington identity theft tour
When: Thursday, Aug. 30, 2007
- FREE SHREDDING: 5 to 7 p.m., Bates Technical College – South Campus, parking lot near Building D. Enter from 78th St. All are invited to bring their sensitive documents to be destroyed by LeMay, which is donating services.
- IDENTITY THEFT FORUM: 6:30 to 8 p.m, Bates Technical College - – South Campus, Auditorium, 2201 S. 78th St. Attorney General Rob McKenna, AARP’s Jean Mathison and Steve Larsen from the AGO Consumer Protection Division will speak about identity theft prevention. Register online at www.guarditwashington.com or call toll-free 1-800-646-2283. Walk-ins welcome.
For more information on the tour, visit www.guarditwashington.com.
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Contact: J. Ryan Shannon, Media Relations Manager, (360) 753-2727