The Chatham County Police Department is reminding citizens to be on the lookout for mail theft as the federal government prepares to send citizens stimulus checks in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While many people will receive the stimulus money by direct deposit, a large number of people will receive paper checks in the mail in the coming weeks and months. The Chatham County Police Department says if you are expecting a paper check, you need to pay special attention to your mail delivery.
Here are some ways to protect yourself against thieves targeting your mailbox:
1.Know when your mail arrives each day, and go to the mailbox right away to retrieve it.
2.If you know you will not be home when your mail arrives, ask a trusted friend, neighbor, or relative to pick it up for you.
3.If you are going to be out of town, contact the U.S. Postal Service to put a hold on your mail. That way, your mail won’t be delivered until you return home.
4.Make sure the door to your mailbox closes all the way. An open mailbox with mail inside is an invitation to thieves.
If you suspect mail theft, contact your local police department or the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455.
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