Protect Your Mail: Don't Be a Victim of Identity Theft

The following was released by the city of Minnetonka:

Your identity can be stolen in many ways, including by stealing your mail. Protect your mail by following these steps:

• Don’t put outgoing mail in your mailbox. Drop off mail in a blue USPS collection mailbox, at the post office or give mail directly to your carrier.
• Don’t leave mail in the mailbox overnight.
• If possible, install a mailbox with a locking mechanism.
• Pick up new checks at the bank instead of having them mailed.
• If you are going to be out of town, have the post office hold your mail or have a trusted neighbor pick it up daily.
• If you travel frequently, consider renting a post office box.
• Keep track of your credit card billing cycle—if you do not receive a credit card bill when expected, contact your credit card company.
• Consider electronic banking and direct deposit to reduce the amount of personal financial information in your mail.
• Opt out of receiving pre-approved credit and insurance offers by calling 1.888.5.OPTOUT (1.888.567.8688) or visit www.optoutprescreen.com.
• Use a paper shredder to destroy unwanted mail that contains financial, medical or personal information. Then recycle it: place shredded paper in a paper bag, secure the top, and throw it in your recycle cart.

If you see suspicious people or activity at a mailbox in your neighborhood, call 9-1-1.