Personal Identity

People forget that the mailbox is part of the home. Your personal identity is a serious home safety issue because of the important information that can be in your mailbox. When suspects steal personal information, they use the information to their full advantage by writing checks and stealing the victim’s identity.  Most citizens don’t realize their mail is missing until they start receiving missed payment statements or the company stops their services.  The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is asking citizens to be aware of the increasing number of mail thefts in our community and to take precautions to prevent them from becoming victims.

• Outgoing mail – When mailing anything containing account numbers, personal infromation or checks, take them to your local post office or hand deliver them to your postman.  Do not place any mail in your mailbox overnight.

• Incoming mail – Have anything sent to you containing account numbers, personal infromation, credit cards or checks sent to a P.O. Box at your local post office.

• When you’re away – Inform your UPS, DHL or Fed Ex driver not to leave packages at the residence when you are not home, this is an open invitation to burglars.  If you go on vacation have your neighbors collect your mail DAILY.

• Reporting theft and fraud – Report mail thefts to your local law enforcement agency.

• Vehicle Safety – Your vehicle can also be an open invitation.  Do not leave purses or wallets in unattended vehicles even for a short period of time.  Lock your vehicle and remove all valuable items including keys and mobile garage door openers, keep your residence locked and secured.

Thanks to the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office

for their contributions to these tips.