If you live in Hudson Valley, it’s time to get on the defensive regarding mail theft. With rising mail thefts, NY residents can’t ignore unchecked statements, packages, and important documents. Mail theft and fraud can jeopardize your privacy and financial information.
What is postal mail theft?
Postal mail theft is a felony under federal law and could be penalized by up to five years in prison. Offenders of financial mail theft could face up to ten years in prison and fines up to $250,000. Financial mail thieves target documents such as statements, credit cards, and checks. They can also target confidential items like tax information and Social Security numbers.
Where has this been a problem in NY?
New York Attorney General Letitia James warned New Yorkers about mail theft and shared USPS tips to protect themselves.
In Orange County, The Town of Montgomery Police Department posted the warning on Facebook, “Attention Town of Montgomery residents, businesses, and surrounding communities! There is an ongoing pattern of stolen mail and checks from mailboxes involving numerous jurisdictions in Orange and Dutchess counties.” Police say the criminals steal mail, find checks, and use mobile deposit at banks and credit unions.
How can you protect yourself?
The state’s top prosecutor released the following tips:
- Pick up your mail promptly. Do not leave it in your mailbox overnight. If you expect financial items, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail.
- Report possible lost mail. Contact the issuing agency immediately if you did not receive your statement, check, or other valuable mail you were expecting.
- Did you move? Notify your post office and business contacts immediately if you change your address.
- Are you traveling? Inform your post office when you’ll be away, so they can hold your mail.
- Use email notifications. Consider signing up for USPS’ Informed Delivery service, which provides email notifications for incoming mail and packages.
- Contact police. If you suspect your mail was stolen or you see mail theft in progress, contact the police immediately and then report it to Postal Inspectors by calling 877-876-2455.
- Report sticky substances. If you see glue, tape, or any other sticky substances on a mailbox, report it to your post office, Postal Inspectors, or the New York Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). The USPIS can be reached at 212-330-2400.
How Can TEGFCU help you stay safe from postal theft?
Our goal at TEGFCU is to help keep your financial information safe from prying eyes. That’s why we offer eStatements for checking and credit card accounts. TEGFCU eStatements are your best option. They are secure and always available to you 24/7/365.
