Craig Olive, Johnston County Register of Deeds, announced Tuesday that his annual Shred Event is scheduled for Saturday, April 23, 2022, from 10:00AM – 1:00PM.  The event is free to the public and will be held in the parking lot of Smithfield Selma Senior High School located at 700 M. Durwood Stephenson Parkway in Smithfield.  This year’s event is in conjunction with the Town Of Smithfield and also sponsored by The Johnston County Report, 102.3 Country Superstars, Local Government Federal Credit Union, and Hinson’s Printing.

A long time and strong supporter of efforts to prevent identity theft, Mr. Olive believes that his annual Shred Events are a great benefit to the citizens of Johnston County.  “I will continue my efforts to prevent identity theft as long as I am in public service.  These annual shred events provide our citizens a free way to dispose of personal and sensitive information.  I am happy to assist our citizens in any way that I can.  The shredding of sensitive and personal documents is a proactive way to protect your identity and I am proud to sponsor these events.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission, the following are clues that someone has stolen your information:

• You see withdrawals from your bank account that you can't explain.
• You don’t get your bills or other mail.
• Merchants refuse your checks.
• Debt collectors call you about debts that aren’t yours.
• You find unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report.
• Medical providers bill you for services you didn’t use.
• Your health plan rejects your legitimate medical claim because the records show you’ve reached your benefits limit.
• A health plan won’t cover you because your medical records show a condition you don’t have.
• The IRS notifies you that more than one tax return was filed in your name, or that you have income from an employer you don’t work for.
• You get notice that your information was compromised by a data breach at a company where you do business or have an account.

If you notice any of the above clues, investigate through your financial institution and contact the three national credit bureaus to report any fraudulent activity.

The Shred Event has been an annual free event for Mr. Olive since 2009.  He looks forward to the event each year and has no plans to discontinue the effort.  “Our shred events are a highlight for me each year.  I enjoy helping people and look forward to seeing our residents on April 23”, states Olive.  Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact his office at 919-989-5160.