The Atherton Police is warning residents to secure their mail after reports of mail being stolen out of numerous mailboxes last night. Mail retrieved from the thefts were from residences on Melanie Lane, Stockbridge Avenue, Patricia Drive, Ralston Avenue, Almendral Avenue, Selby Lane, and Serrano Drive.
Other cities in the county have also reported mail thefts overnight. The offenders are targeting mailboxes in order to obtain checks and personal information that can be used for identity theft.
It is recommended to:
- Use a mailbox that can be secured with a locking device
- Collect mail daily
- Deposit outgoing mail at a post office
- Pick up checks in person.
Residents can also place a hold on mail deliveries when leaving for vacation and are encouraged not to leave mail in their mailbox overnight. Mail theft victims can report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at https://www.identitytheft.gov/ and freeze their credit by contacting a major credit bureau such as Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.