The Alton Police Department has reported that the Alton School Street postal mail drop box is the latest target in mail thefts across the state. The mailbox has been blocked off until it can be replaced with a new anti-tamper box and the police department is encouraging residents to bring their mail directly in the post office for the time being.
Be mindful when sending and receiving mail, especially around the holiday season. If you believe you are the victim of mail theft, please report the matter to www.uspis.gov/report and contact your local police department.
Follow these recommendations to keep your mail safe:
- Use the letter slots inside your post office for mail, or hand it to a letter carrier
- Pick up your mail promptly after delivery – do not leave items in the mailbox overnight
- If you use a curbside mailbox, drop off your mail close to the pickup time and do not put mail in the box after the last pickup time
- Request signature confirmation for the recipient
- If you are expecting and did not receive a check or other valuable mail, contact the issuing party immediately
- When mailing checks, fill them out with gel-style ink that cannot be erased or “washed” like ink from a standard ballpoint pen – this can prevent your checks from being altered if stolen
- If you change your address, immediately notify your post office and anyone who you do business with via mail
- Tell your local post office when you will be out of town so they can hold your mail
- Do not send cash and use caution when mailing as-good-as-cash gifts, such as gift cards and gift certificates
If you ever feel information related to your financial accounts with us has been compromised or if you suspect your mail with checks or other financial information has been stolen, please contact us at 800.922.6872 so that we can assist you with protecting your accounts.
