You may be checking your inbox, but Coquitlam RCMP want to remind you to check your mailbox as well.
According to the detachment’s spokesperson, Cpl. Alexa Hodgins, officers responded to 161 reports of mail theft last year.
In 2022 they had 239..
In January of this year alone, there were 21 mail theft reports.
“Mail and identity theft have a significant impact throughout our region,” said Hodgins in a news release, adding residents should consistently check and retrieve their mail, especially if they’re using a community mailbox or live in an apartment or condo, as they’re a more likely target for thieves.
Other tips to prevent mail theft include:
- collect your mail daily or frequently
- deposit your mail in collection boxes close to the time they’re scheduled for pickups
- if you’re going to be away, ask a friend or neighbour to collect your mail or contact Canada Post to put a hold on deliveries
- notify mailers when you change your address
- make note if you’re expecting mail but didn’t receive it
- report suspicious activities around mailboxes
- if you live in a multi-unit building, take care not to allow unfamiliar people into the lobby
If you see a mail theft in progress, call 911 immediately. If a mail theft has already occurred, call Coquitlam RCMP’s non-emergency line at 604-945-1550.
