Preventing Mail Theft

Sponsored - While neither rain nor snow, sleet or intense heat stops a postal worker from delivering your mail, a determined criminal can. Stolen mail, especially checks, has been on the rise in recent years. Unfortunately, mail theft can be connected to many types of scams when criminals steal your valuable personal information or check payments to commit fraudulent crimes and identity theft.

Keeping your money and financial information safe is a top priority at First Commerce. Here are a few things you can do to help protect yourself from mail thieves.

· When possible, avoid sending checks through the mail to pay bills. Use trusted online bill pay services through your financial institution or send money directly to people you know through person-to-person payment services such as Zelle®.

· Do not leave checks in your mailbox overnight, and never send cash in the mail. Hand your mail directly to a letter carrier or drop your mail off at your local Post Office.

· Retrieve mail from your mailbox promptly after delivery. If you are expecting checks, credit cards, or other sensitive items, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail if you are not able to get your mail soon after delivery.

· When going out of town, place a hold on all mail delivery until you return home by notifying your Post Office. You can schedule mail delivery holds online through the U.S. Postal Service web site.

Mail theft is a federal crime that carries heavy penalties. It’s important to remember that like other types of crime, mail theft is a crime of opportunity. If you are expecting a check or other valuable item by mail and did not receive it, contact the issuing agency immediately. Report all suspected mail theft to your local police and Postal Inspector.

To learn more about protecting yourself from fraud and identity theft, visit the First Commerce web site at FirstCommerceCU.org/Fraud.

That’s The Power of You!

Zelle® Mobile network carrier fees may apply. Must have a bank account in the U.S. to use Zelle®. Transactions typically occur in minutes when the recipient’s email address or U.S. mobile number is already enrolled with Zelle®. In order to send payment requests or split payment requests to a U.S. mobile number, the mobile number must already be enrolled with Zelle®. Insured by NCUA. First Commerce does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. The information on this page is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your tax, legal or accounting advisors for further guidance.