In an effort to protect American consumers from identity theft, The New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) and the American Shredding Company have joined New York Senator Charles J Fuschillo to launch an event known as Shredding Day, which will take place today, October 21.

Free and open to the public, the event will be an opportunity for persons who have documents that contain personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account numbers or credit card information.

"An individual's personal, private information is so valuable to identity thieves that some are willing to dig through the garbage just to get it," said Senator Fuschillo. "Shredding is one of the best ways for individuals to dispose of old documents while protecting their private information."

The CPB recommends that citizens shred all Tax documents after seven years, all bank records after one year and all credit card receipts and statements after reconciling with their bank.

While shredding is a good way to keep your personal data secure, it's important to remember that thieves also use the internet to steal sensitive information. Consumers who regularly shop online. should consider using a secure payment service to guard their online data.