A new RCMP Unit in the province is reporting that they've received several calls about rural mailboxes being the target of thefts and that's prompting police to remind everyone to check their mail on a daily basis.  

The newly operating Call Back Unit of the RCMP said that criminals who steal mail are targeting pre-paid credit cards, gift cards, cheques and documents that will make it easy for them to access your banking and other personal information.  This time of year, thieves are especially targeting the pre-paid credit cards that are used by tax companies to deliver refunds to their clients.

The RCMP's Corporal Laurel Scott said having your mail stolen is a terrible feeling. "It's quite a violation to have your mail tampered with or stolen or have the mailbox busted up.  We just want to put out a reminder to residents that it is happening and we have a few tips."

Scott said the best way to prevent theft is just not to have any mail, however, she also points out that is not a practical solution.  So how about some viable solutions to cut down on the possibility of mail theft.

Scott said she has three:

  • Check your mailbox daily and remove accumulated mail 
  • If you are expecting a parcel, consider having that parcel either sent by registered mail, or to a business address where someone has to sign for the delivery
  • Consider picking up your online purchases at the stores you ordered them from

Scott said there are seasons when things come into your mailbox, and thieves are looking for those things.

"For instance, at Christmastime, you're going to have culprits that are looking for gift cards and cash.  At Easter again, there may be cards and gift cards coming in the mail.  It's now tax refund season and so I think people now are maybe expecting tax refunds back from Revenue Canada or gift cards from people who've prepared tax returns.  The guys stealing the mail are aware of different times and what to look for."

Scott said if your mailbox has been broken into, or tampered with, to call your local RCMP and also report the situation to Canada Post.

If you believe that mail has been stolen, contact the business or agency who you were expecting mail from, including utility companies, banking organizations and credit card companies.  This type of mail contains information that may lead to identity theft.

 

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