Did you know that the United States Postal Service has its own security agency? That’s right – the U.S. Postal Inspection Service agency is responsible for about 10,000 arrests a year regarding mail theft, scams, and fraud. Many people seek to improve their mailbox security after an important package or letter has already been stolen. Why wait? With private mailboxes at Mail Boxes Times, you can have mailbox security immediately with 24-hour access at a prestigious Beverly Hills mailbox address – regardless of where you maintain your residence.
Mailbox security is no joke. Luckily, there are many safety measures residents can take to protect their incoming packages and mail.
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Defining Mail Fraud
U.S. law denotes mail fraud as any criminal activity that uses the mail to obtain money or property under false pretenses; or to sell, distribute, exchange, supply, or use counterfeits through the mail. Unfortunately, it is one of the most common federal criminal charges.
According to researchers from security.org, close to 40% of people have been the victims of “porch pirates,” or those who take package deliveries from others’ porches, doorsteps, and stoops. Especially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, after prolonged store and business closures and quarantine protocols, an increase in online shopping has exacerbated the mail theft problem.
Mailbox Security Basics
1) Rent a Private Mailbox
If you can, rent a private mailbox. Private mailboxes are significantly more secure than traditional mailboxes at individual properties, and they completely solve the problem of leaving packages on your doorstep while you’re at work. Many offer 24 hour access, which means you can safely access your mail at any time. Plus, private mailboxes offer a layer of security if you own a home based business, storefront, or just want to protect your privacy in terms of your address of residence.
2) Sign Up For Package Tracking Notifications
Package tracking notifications are useful for 1) following your package’s location as you eagerly anticipate its arrival and 2) knowing when you need to be home to bring it inside. The longer a package sits unattended on your porch, the more likely it is to get stolen. Notifications about your package’s arrival give you the ability to plan ahead and arrange for a neighbor or roommate to take the package in while you are away.
3) Use a Locking Mailbox
If a private mailbox is not possible, a locking mailbox can at least protect the paper mail that gets delivered to your address. Locking mailboxes have a slot for a mail person to slide letters into the locked portion of the box – so once a letter slides in, it cannot be removed without a key.
Rent a Beverly Hills Mailbox Today
Mail Boxes Times offers private mailbox rental with excellent security and 24-hour access at a prestigious Beverly Hills address. Our mailbox sizes range from small to large, and they can be used for personal or business purposes. Give us a call at (310) 276-5076 or email us at info@mailboxestimes.com to learn more about what we can do for you.