Mail theft
Mail Theft Prevention Tips
Mail theft can be more than just a break and enter or mischief incident. Mail theft typically leads to more serious crimes like identity theft. Take precautions to put mail theft in the junk pile:
- Collect your mail DAILY; don’t allow your mail to accumulate overnight.
- Get to know your mail carrier’s usual delivery time.
- Do NOT send cash in the mail.
- If you’ll be away, have someone collect your mail for you, or have your services suspended for that period.
- If you are expecting and did not receive a cheque or other valuable mail, contact the issuing agency immediately.
- Keep your mailbox in good repair and make sure it's properly installed and locked at all times.
- If you’re expecting a package, choose a shipping option that requires you to sign for your delivery.
- If you change your address, tell the Post Office and anyone else you do business with. Take advantage of Canada Post’s mail forwarding option so you can see which businesses still require your new mailing address.
- If you see a damaged mailbox, notify Canada Post, your building manager, or police.
- Any suspicious activity surrounding Mailboxes should be reported to police.
Parcel Theft
With online shopping a common go-to for your everyday necessities and the nice-to-haves, theft of parcels has grown in Edmonton. There are options available for homeowners waiting for their goodies:
- Using the delivery service’s tracking app (if available)
- Do your best to schedule the delivery for a time that you are at home.
- If you’re unable to be at home on the day and time of delivery, we recommend
- asking the company to deliver the item to another, less visible location on your property
- ask a trusted neighbour, family member, or friend to pick it up for you
- Have packages shipped directly to Canada Post outlets if the retailer is able to ship to PO boxes. This is a free service that may be helpful for those who are unable to receive their packages. More information can be found on the Canada Post website.
If you experience theft, report it to the Edmonton Police Service by calling 780-423-4567 or #377 from your mobile device. If the value of your stolen item(s) is under $5,000, you may also be able to report online.