Don’t Be a Victim of Identity Thieves Targeting Your Mailbox
According to Javelin Strategy & Research, over 16.7 million cases of identity theft were reported in 2017 with over $16.8 billion stolen. Despite increased vigilance, it continues to be among the most prevalent crimes today. Every minute, someone becomes a victim – and everyone is a target.
Thieves are determined and ready to do everything to steal critical information about you, such as your name, telephone number, address, Social Security Number, contact details, and bank or credit card numbers. They can use sensitive information in different ways, such as going on a shopping spree, taking out loans, availing exclusive privileges, opening bank accounts, and applying for utility services, under your name. Worst, identity thieves can use your name while doing their crimes, which puts you at great risk.
Although scammers now use high-tech tactics to get hold of their victim’s critical personal information, a much uncomplicated form of identity theft remains prevalent – that is mailbox theft.
This classic form of identity theft has been around for a long time but remains widespread. Indeed, an unlocked mailbox without any form of security is an easy-peasy target, as compared to a highly secured database. The sad fact is that only a handful of households actually use the best locking mailbox reviewed and recommended by top security experts. Homeowners don’t consider their mailboxes as a security risk. As such, anyone can simply get a hold of your correspondences without a hassle.
The mailbox is replete with information that thieves want. Wondering what sort of information can be found in there? Let’s check out six mailbox finds and why scammers want them:
- Credit card bills
Credit card statements are replete with information that fraudsters can use for their gain. They can contact you to ask for further details which can give them clue as to the card’s expiration date. With this information, they can now successfully use your credit card to make online purchases. In some cases, the fraudsters may call up the credit card company and pretend to be you. Credit card bills also contain a list of all your transactions that include very private information that you don’t want others to know. They can use such highly personal information against you.
2. Bank statements
Many opt to receive monthly report of their bank transactions through mail – and that’s a target of fraudsters. Just like above, they can call you up and pretend to be a bank officer. And since they have information on your account number, transaction details and all other classified information, they can easily convince you to whatever requests they may have in mind. They might ask for password details, PIN number change, or even request you to make payments.
3. Pre-approved credit card
This one’s a boon for mailbox thieves. Without your knowledge, fraudsters can go on a shopping spree using a card issued in your name. If victims are not vigilant and won’t check their credit report, they would hardly know that they’re accumulating debt.
4. Newly issued credit cards
Another pricey find in the mailbox, new credit cards can also be used by thieves. Unlike pre-activated credit cards, these new issuances don’t come activated. You just hope the fraudsters are unable to activate your card. If they do, it’s like they’ve hit the jackpot!
5. Bank checks
Re-ordered paper checks are a security risk. If they get stolen, it’s very easy to know your sign and produce a fake ID. The fraudsters can place whatever amount there is in your account. They can encash it or use to pay up for purchases. It can take a long time before you can actually know someone is already milking your bank account.
6. Personal mail
Personal correspondences reveal so much about you and everyone around you. Identity thieves want to know more about you to make their impersonation or scheme even more convincing. With this, they can pull off some ingenious fraud activities. Some mails even contain confidential work-related messages that thieves can also use.
Considering all the hazards of identity theft, it is vital to be proactive in protecting your privacy. Here are some ways to protect your mailbox from thieves:
- Opt out of paper statements. Digital bank statements are considered more secured – they’re also eco-friendly.
- Ask your bank, credit card provider or any other providers to remove any personal information in their mails.
- Invest in any of the locking mailboxes reviewed at PropertyGuardMaster.com. These can effectively safeguard your correspondences.
- Immediately report to the post office any unusual delay in the receipt of your mail. Someone may be raiding your mailbox.
- Never avail of pre-approved credit card offers.
- If you really prefer paper trails, you should consider a post box for classified mail, such as credit card or bank statements.
- Check the delivery dates on your correspondences. This is to ensure that they are delivered on time and that no thief has gotten hold of it and returned back to the mailbox after.
By following these tips, you can avoid falling victim to identity thieves and protect your personal information.
