09/13/2024
Imagine this: you mail a check to one of your accounts only to discover later it's been stolen, altered, and deposited into something you don't recognize.
Mail theft is more common than you might think. It has steadily risen nationwide, with cases surging by 400% since 2019.
Check out this real-life example:
A recent incident involved an individual mailing a check for estimated taxes to the IRS. Unfortunately, the check was intercepted during mailing. The thieves then cleverly altered the check, making it payable to two individuals. The fraudulent check was deposited into separate accounts under the thieves' names.
Thankfully, the bank eventually resolved the issue, but the experience serves as a stark reminder: fraudsters are constantly innovating, and mail remains a target.
Here are some steps to consider:
🔘 Go digital: Many institutions, including the IRS, offer online payment options. Switching to electronic payments eliminates the risk of mail theft.
🔘 Shred sensitive documents: Don't toss out old bank statements or credit card offers. Take the time to shred anything that relates to your personal finances.
🔘 Monitor, monitor, monitor: Review bank and credit card statements regularly. If you notice something unusual, report it immediately.
Don’t think that fraud can just occur online. Take steps to help protect yourself both off and online!