SHERIFF'S OFFICE SHARES MAIL THEFT PREVENTION TIPS

Douglas Co. Sheriff's Office

DOUGLAS COUNTY, OR - Tax time is here and as such, many residents are awaiting tax return checks. This also provides prime opportunities for thieves to attempt to intercept your refund checks from unsecure mailboxes. Recently, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office has received numerous reports of mail theft occurring throughout the county.  

"In addition to looking for refund checks, mail theft compromises your identity and can make you vulnerable to becoming a victim of fraud," Lt. Brad O'Dell said.

The Sheriff's Office recommends that residents consider taking the following actions to decrease their likelihood of mail theft:

• Consider renting a post office box or getting a locking mailbox at your driveway. Unsecure traditional mailboxes allow anyone to open your mailbox and take your mail.
   
• Sign up for FREE Informed Delivery at https://www.usps.com/ - Informed Delivery through the United States Postal Service, allows you to digitally preview what is expected to arrive in your mailbox.
   
• Attempt to pick up your mail promptly after delivery or ask a trusted person to retrieve it for you. If you are going to be away, consider asking the post office to hold your mail until you return.
   
• Never send cash through the mail.
   
• Place outgoing mail in the mailbox close to pick-up time; avoid leaving it in the mailbox for long periods of time. Consider using the post office or a secure drop-off for drop-off.
   
• Inquire about overdue mail.
   
• Report mail theft to law enforcement immediately.

"When it comes to solving mail theft cases, it is a community effort", Lt. O'Dell said. "Reporting suspicious vehicles or persons near mailboxes can help law enforcement solve these crimes. Video surveillance and trail cameras placed strategically near mailboxes is also highly beneficial".