Stolen mail provides criminals with personal information (name, bank info, credit card info, etc...) that can be used for various fraudulent activities including: identity theft, loan fraud, and bank fraud. Mail thieves alter stolen checks by using ink-removing chemicals to make the check blank, thus allowing the check to be forged. This process is called "washing" checks.
Here are a few suggestions to protect your mail:
- Do not deposit mail into mailboxes after it's been collected for the day.
- Use the letter slots inside your Post Office for your mail, or hand deliver it to a letter carrier.
- Bank online. Refrain from mailing checks or other negotiable items if possible.
- If you must send a check in the mail, use a gel pen to write checks; ballpoint pen ink can be easily washed off a check.
- Use plain white envelopes with company names, these tend to be easy targets.
- Refrain from sending cash or sensitive information in mail if possible.
- Monitor bank activity online and review bank statements.
