Mailboxes are a familiar sight on many streets across America, but most of them have not been replaced in many years and are not protected by modern security measures.
Your mailbox is designed to receive mail and they do that very well, but they aren't designed to keep you safe from the very real threat of identity theft.
Identity theft hits many Americans every day, and the criminals access some of the information that they use to steal your identity through an unsecured or under-secured mailbox.
Your mailbox is filled with all kinds of personal data in the mail you receive every day.
You may get an offer for a new credit card, or a bill that has your information printed on it.
When the mail comes, we go outside to the mailbox to collect it, and bring it back inside the house with us.
If a thief who wants your information gets to the mailbox before you do, it takes less than a minute to grab an envelope and leave with your information.
Once the data is in his hands, your personal information can be used to issue new credit cards, put charges on old credit cards, or take out loans in your name.
Replacing your old mailbox is one more way to help protect yourself from identity theft.
You need to have a mailbox to get your daily mail, and it should be secured.
Traditional mailboxes offer nothing in terms of security and can be accessed by anyone who passes by.
There are mailboxes designed with the safety of your information in mind and available through stores.
Many are made from strong, solid steel to discourage break-ins.
The mailbox is manufactured in dimensions that allow the letter carrier to put your mail inside easily.
The underside of the mailbox is designed to be opened with a key that only you have.
This simple security measure can make it too difficult for a thief to get his hands on your mail and your personal information.
These models are available from your local hardware store, department store or from a vendor online.
This is an inexpensive way to protect yourself against a crime that could cost you everything.
They protect against break-ins with their solid construction and are easy to open with the key for times when you want to collect your mail and deliveries.
Take a good look at your present mailbox the next time you are out to collect your mail.
Switching the mailbox for a more secure unit will give you the peace of mind that your identity and your family are secure.