Mail theft is a mail-forwarding scam where one gains access to someone else's documents in the post-box to commit different types of identity fraud or indulge in bogus transactions through misplaced credit cards. 

Sometimes, a change in address leads to identity theft, where the person who gains access to your posts gets to know your name, address and other secretive information. 

They use the mail-in change of address form provided by the post office and change the address without the address owner's knowledge. Such deceptions require a $1 verification fee from the bank account. 

Similarly, there can be threat actors who operate on chat platforms or remain hidden on online platforms. A person or their business may move premises or temporarily relocate our operations; in that case, you direct the mail to continue your work. 

The person applying for redirecting the address will be contacted by the Royal Mail, and the staff will seek permission to continue redirections for the next six or twelve months. 

There are multiple ways one can use the information to commit fraud. For example, they can get healthcare or loan statements to exploit the client, and a fair amount of damage could happen to the person. 

How To Identify and Address It?

• If you get a verification form related to your postal address and have not requested it, you should call the local post office and inquire if it was filed.

• If suddenly you notice a decline in the number of posts you get or if the billing address of the credit card changes and you get notifications, you should call your bank and enquire about it.

• If you get a message that an account has been opened in your name without your initiation, it indicates a takeover of your details.

How To Protect Yourself? 

• To lower the risks, one should not tell financial details to unsolicited callers and shield oneself from such damages and possible fraud. 

• Opt for paperless billing and communication. 

• Do not leave documents with a current address in public if you plan to move out.

• Do not disclose sensitive information to others or put the statements in the recycle bin directly without shredding.