Madison Police receiving several calls regarding residential mail theft
MADISON – Madison Police said Monday they have received several calls about stolen mail, and in some cases it has cost the victim hundreds of dollars.
According to officials, the victims have placed envelopes in their boxes and lifted the flag to signal pick up to the mail carrier. “Unfortunately, these victims also put checks in the envelopes and they were stolen,” said MPD Community Relations Officer Teresa Taylor-Duncan. “The check amounts were changed and additional payees were added resulting in losses of hundreds of dollars, late bills, and major headaches.”
Officer Taylor-Duncan said the Madison Police Department recommends people pay bills by electronic means, either direct debit or using a credit card.
“If you must pay by check, take the envelope directly to the post office, mail it from your place of business, or drop it in one of the blue U.S. Postal receptacles,” she said. “Putting checks in the mailbox with a flag raised is like adding bait to your fishing line. Crooks drive through the city looking for raised red flags and prey on those of us who are unsuspecting.”
It is also recommended that residents take the same precautions when mailing anything that contains personal information, such as SSN, date of birth, and credit card information.
