Beware of mail theft epidemic in Federal Way | Letter

It looks like we’re experiencing an epidemic of mail theft around Federal Way. In addition to the media reports of Post Office “blue box” break-ins, mail is being taken from individual

It looks like we’re experiencing an epidemic of mail theft around Federal Way. In addition to the media reports of Post Office “blue box” break-ins, mail is being taken from individual mailboxes.

Even lockable mailboxes are being pried open, and a case was reported in the news about a cluster mailbox broken into.

While I trust that the police and the Post Office are trying to stop these crimes, I urge our neighbors to help minimize the “payoff” for the mail thieves.

First, never put outgoing mail in your mailbox that contains anything of value. Second, pick up your mail promptly after delivery – never leave it in the box overnight.

Third, don’t trust your lockable mailbox to be theft-proof, and if you’ll be away for more than a short period, put your mail on hold or ask a neighbor to pick it up.

Fourth, do whatever you can to minimize the amount of mail that you receive that thieves consider to be valuable. Opt out of credit card offers, go “paperless” for bills that contain full credit card numbers or (heaven forbid) social security numbers.

Maybe if we eliminate the “payoff” for mail thieves, they’ll leave us alone. But until then, be extra careful and keep an eye on your mailbox.

Dave Gromala, Federal Way