Mail theft is a serious problem, especially for older adults. Thieves often target seniors because they perceive older adults as being more vulnerable. Here are some tips for how older people can reduce their risk of facing stolen mail.
Stolen Mail
- Have your mail delivered to a secure location. If possible, have your mail delivered to a post office box or a secure mailbox. This will make it more difficult for thieves to steal your mail.
- Check your mail regularly. Don’t let your mail pile up. Check your mailbox every day, or have a trusted neighbor or friend check it for you.
- Don’t open mail from unfamiliar senders. If you don’t recognize the sender, don’t open the mail. Shred it or take it to the post office.
- Be careful about what information you give out over the phone. Don’t give out your personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account number, to anyone who calls you unsolicited.
- Consider getting a mail theft detector. Several devices detect when someone opens your mailbox.
- Report mail theft to the police. If you suspect mail theft, report it to the police immediately.
Here are some additional stolen mail tips that are specific to older adults:
- Let your neighbors know that you are elderly and that you live alone. This will help them to be more vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to you or the police.
- Don’t leave your mail in your mailbox overnight. If you can’t get to your mailbox during the day, take your mail with you.
- Don’t open mail in public. This could make you a target for thieves.
- Be aware of scams that target older adults. There are many scams that target older adults, such as the “grandparent scam” and the “IRS scam.” Be aware of these scams and don’t give out any personal information to anyone who calls you unsolicited.
By following these tips, you can help to protect your mail from being stolen.
In addition to the tips above, here are some other things you can do to protect your mail:
- Keep your mailbox clean and free of clutter. This will make it more difficult for thieves to hide their activities.
- Install a bright light near your mailbox. This will deter thieves and make it easier for you to see if someone has tampered with your mailbox.
- Consider getting a security camera that can monitor your mailbox. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you are being watched.
By taking these steps, you can help to protect your mail from being stolen and keep your personal information safe.
About Walnut Creek Elder Law in Walnut Creek, California
Michael J. Young is an experienced elder law, estate planning and asset protection planning attorney in Walnut Creek, CA. Mr. Young advises his clients regarding their estate planning needs with an emphasis on asset protection, Medi-Cal qualification, and preservation of assets for various levels of their care as they get older. Mr. Young’s journey into elder law began when his mother suffered from an acute injury that required her to be in a skilled nursing facility. He is co-author of the book, Don’t Go Broke in A Nursing Home and is the author of the “Alzheimer’s Legal Survival Guide.” Mr. Young presents monthly workshops in Walnut Creek regarding estate planning, asset protection, and Medi-Cal planning. He has helped many clients over the years successfully qualify for Medi-Cal and has protected their assets from state recovery. Call today to schedule a consultation (925) 256-0298.