Mail theft remains one of the most common gateways to identity theft in California and across the U.S. Criminals target mailboxes looking for sensitive documents such as bank statements, credit card offers, utility bills, or government correspondence. Even seemingly harmless pieces of mail can provide clues—like your name, address, and account numbers—that can be pieced together for fraud.
One of the biggest risks comes from pre-approved credit card offers and checks. Thieves can use these documents to open fraudulent accounts in your name or to cash counterfeit checks. They may also steal tax forms, Social Security statements, or medical records to commit more sophisticated fraud like filing false tax returns or accessing health benefits.
Because stolen mail can expose so many aspects of your identity, victims often discover fraudulent activity only after significant damage has been done. That’s why it’s critical to take preventive measures, such as using a locked mailbox, opting for paperless billing, and monitoring your accounts for suspicious activity.
