It happens more often than you’d think. You send a gift card
to a relative or friend, but they never get it. You’re waiting for a rebate
check in the mail, and it never shows. While it may be tempting to blame the
USPS for these annoyances, it likely isn’t their fault at all. There’s all
sorts of reports of mail theft in the media, and these thieves might be the
ones who are responsible for your missing mail.
So, now you know that mail theft exists, and it’s not a rare
occurrence. But what do you do about it? Well, we’ve got some tips for you that
may prevent you from becoming a victim.
One big tip is to never send cash though the mail. While
that is common with sending birthday and graduation cards, it is an easy way
for your money to be stolen and no one to know. You can’t track cash, so always
use a check or money order. If you do plan to send money, it is best to warn
the receiver in advanced so they’re watching for it.
On the same note, you should also pick up your mail as soon
as you can after it’s been delivered. This is especially true if you yourself
are expecting money, credit cards, or gifts in the mail. If you cannot get to
your mailbox, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to retrieve your mail.
When sending mail, placing mail in your mailbox with the
flag up is the least secure way to do it. Instead, mail your items from a
public building or, better yet, from the post office itself. It prevents mail
from getting into the wrong hands.
Consider paying bills online, and attempting to get personal
financial information all delivered digitally. When you receive mail such as
credit card offers you do not want, be sure to dispose of them carefully. Shred
them or cut them up so they can’t be stolen and taken out in your name.
If you are going out of town, put a hold on your mail or ask
a trusted neighbor to pick up your mail for you. If thieves see an overflowing
mailbox, they’ll feel free to take mail from it.
You may also consider investing in a locking mailbox. With
these types of mailboxes, you are the only one with access to your mailbox.
That way you don’t have to be concerned about thieves approaching your mailbox.
Of course, these tips aren’t foolproof, but they’re a step
in the right direction to preventing mail theft.
