Helpful Tips on How to Prevent Mail Theft

October 23, 2018 10:25 am

In this post, our mailbox experts will look at how to prevent mail theft and review the steps you can take to minimize your risk.

Is mail theft a felony? Yes, it is. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a federal agency, which makes mail theft a federal offence. Mail theft is also a felony in Canada, the United Kingdom, and in Australia.

What can you do to avoid becoming a victim of mail theft? And, if you have already been a victim, you need to learn how to prevent mail theft so it never happens to you again.

What Is Mail Theft?

Mail theft occurs when someone removes or steals any piece of mail (letters, post cards, bags, boxes, parcels, etc.) that does not belong to them. Most often, mail thieves may be looking for cash, credit cards, or checks in the mail. However, they may also be after items of value including bank statements, social security numbers, and other personal ID information (identity theft).

How To Keep Mail Safe When Receiving MailLocking mailboxes

Here are some tips on how to prevent mail theft from your home or business:

  • Upgrade to a locking mailbox if you don’t already have one
  • Collect your mail ASAP following the mail delivery
  • Never leave your mail in the mailbox overnight or for extended periods of time
  • Request to Stop Mail Delivery if you will be away for any length of time (use a “Hold Mail” service)
  • Consider installing a security camera (it can be a deterrent as well as a means of gathering evidence)
  • If you are moving, be sure to put in a change of address and advise everyone who sends you mail
  • Never discard important or sensitive mail items in the trash – use a shredder first

How To Keep Your Mail Safe When Sending Mail

Here are some tips on how to prevent mail theft (or at least minimize mail theft) when you are sending mail:

  • Never mail cash or personal cheques – only send money orders by mail
  • Don’t leave sensitive mail documents in your mailbox for pick-up – take it in person to your local post office
  • Try and deposit your mail as close to the mailbox pickup times as possible
  • Use online bill payment options – they can be much quicker and much safer

If you should experience an incident of mail theft you can call 1-800-275-8777 (or 1-800-ASK-USPS) for help. For vandalism, you can file a complaint online with USPS at or vandalism.

For additional information on this topic, visit this USPS blog on How to Prevent Mail Theft.

Contact The MailboxWorks

Do you still have questions about how to prevent mail theft? Would you like help placing an order for a locking mailbox. If so, please call our mailbox experts toll free at 1-866-717-4943 or contact The MailboxWorks through our online contact form.

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