When thieves steal packages, it doesn’t just affect the receiver. Mail fraud and package theft can cause significant losses for your business, and can expose sensitive information. Here’s how scammers can use your mail to harm yourself and your customers, and how to prevent it.
What Is Mail Fraud?
Mail fraud happens when a thief steals mail in order to gain access to money or information. A common form of fraud that businesses experience is when criminals steal checks from the mail, which give them access to the information they need to impersonate you. Scammers can create false checks, or alter the ones they stole to deposit for themselves.
What Is Package Theft?
Criminals steal packages directly from customer’s porches or mailboxes. Thieves are seeking to sell the contents for a profit, causing your business and the customer to lose money. Additionally, package theft exposes personal data such as addresses and contact information to the criminal.
How To Prevent Mail Fraud and Package Theft:
Taking measures to strengthen your business’ security can prevent mail fraud and increase customer trust.
- Discreet Packaging: Thieves are more drawn to packages that are obvious about their contents. Avoid packaging that is translucent, or has any clues about what’s inside.
- Pickup Options: If your business delivers, consider allowing them to pick up their order at a secure location as an alternative.
- Package Insurance: Offer package insurance options to your customers, and always use package insurance yourself. This can prevent losses when package theft happens.
- ACH Positive Pay: to prevent unauthorized electronic debits, enroll in ACH Positive Pay to monitor your account before they go through. You’ll be able to catch any suspicious charges in the event a scammer gains access to your financial information. Additionally, using ACH for electronic payments eliminates mailing paper checks.
- Check Positive Pay: With Check Positive Pay, you’ll be able to compare checks paid against your issued check file. If there are any discrepancies, the check will be flagged for you to review. This option can prevent fraudulent checks from being paid.
- Secure Mailing Options: Avoid dropping important mail straight into a drop box. Hand mail directly to a mail carrier, or consider using options like Informed Delivery or Registered Mail.
What To Do If You Suspect Fraud
If you suspect fraud, report it to your bank and the FTC as soon as possible. Report mail theft to the USPIS.
Central Bank offers resources to protect your business from fraud. Download our Business Security Toolkit today!
