As tax season arrives, RCMP issue mail theft warning

VERNON – With tax season underway police are reminding residents to be extra vigilant as mail theft often increases at this time of year.

An RCMP media release says as confidential documents are sent in the mail, thieves begin to target mailboxes in the hope of stealing personal information and even money.

"Over the past few months, officers have received reports of Canada Post super boxes being damaged and possible mail that has gone missing in some of the more rural areas," Vernon RCMP spokesperson Const. Kelly Brett said in the release. "We want to remind everyone to collect their mail daily and if you will be away for an extended period of time, have your mail collected by a friend or family member or put your mail on hold with Canada Post."

Here are some tips from RCMP and Canada Post to reduce the chance of having your identity stolen:

• Collect your mail frequently, at least daily;
• Have someone collect your mail, newspapers or parcels while you are away;
• Put a hold on your mail if you are away for any extended period of time;
• If you have an address change, notify your mailers such as all relevant financial institutions, insurance companies, etc. Canada Post offers a mail forwarding service and has change of address cards to assist with the process;
• If your mail fails to arrive, contact original sender to ensure they have your correct mailing address;
• When shopping online, avoid having packages delivered to your front door. If you are not home during the day, have the parcel shipped to your work address or to a post office location;
• Be mindful when you recycle paper. Shred documents that contain personal financial information, such as statements and credit card offers. Watch for and attend your local community shred days within your area.

RCMP also want to remind the public if they see or hear anything suspicious to report it to police.

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