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Mail theft

Mail thieves target homes where the mailboxes are outside and accessible to all. They use residents’ mail to gain access to their personal information and commit different types of fraud (see identity theft).

Attention: Documents containing personal information disposed of in the trash or recycling bin can also be targeted by identity thieves.

MAIL THEFT PREVENTION TIPS

  • Use a mailbox with a lock and key or a mail slot to prevent theft.
  • If you have a regular mailbox, collect your mail as soon as possible after the mail carrier passes.
  • If you are away, ask someone to collect your mail or use Canada Post’s Hold Mail service until you return.
  • Notify Canada Post as soon as possible if you are moving. Sign up for mail forwarding. Also notify the financial institutions and other businesses you deal with of your new address.
  • Take note of your credit card’s renewal date and be vigilant, making sure you receive your new card close to that date. If not, contact your credit card company.
  • If you do not receive your mail, contact the senders to ensure they have the right address. Report the issue to Canada Post’s Customer Service.
  • Shred documents containing personal financial information, such as credit card statements and offers.

REPORTING MAIL OR IDENTITY THEFT

If you suspect or think you were the victim of identity theft or fraud, or if you have accidentally disclosed personal or financial information:

  • Report the incident to your local police service.
  • Contact your bank or financial institution and your credit card company.
  • Contact the two credit rating agencies and ask that a fraud alert be added to your credit file. You can get your credit report free of charge once a year.

Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to report the fraud. Dial 1-888-495-8501 or log on to www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Think you were the victim of mail theft?

If you suspect your mail has been stolen from your mailbox, notify the police and report the incident to Canada Post’s Customer Service.

You can also report the fraud or any other criminal activity anonymously and confidentially to Info-Crime Montréal by dialling 514-393-1133 or through their website at www.infocrimemontreal.ca.