Protect Your Hard Earned Cash, watch for mail thieves

Some thieves have had a new idea to make some quick money. They are stealing written checks from outdoor mailboxes. Then, they alter the checks to get money from your bank account. This crime has taken place at Johnson County, so make sure to look out for this scam. Also, remember that these thieves are not the only ones who could put your money at risk. Most people just don’t know the easiest ways to protect themselves from such scams. The best way to avoid the post office theft is to do everything possible to make sure thieves will not be able to get your checks. If you have to use an outdoor mailbox, make sure to send your mail early. When you visit a post office, use the secure mail slot inside, not the outdoor boxes. The next step is using a pen that can’t be erased easily, like a gel pen. This makes it harder for the thief to change the check. The same goes for window envelopes, which can reveal the contents of the mail, so avoid them. Mail theft is not the only way thieves are getting your info. They steal from the mail and also from your computers. This is called a ‘virtual check fraud’. So it’s better to use electronic payments like online banking or apps. This type of scam is not new, but it remains a major worry. This is not surprising, given how many people still write checks. Given all this, it's a good idea to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity around your mailbox as well. For extra protection, use the mailbox inside the post office when possible. This will keep your checks safer from thieves. Always be on guard, because you never know when crime can strike. So it’s important to be careful and always be aware of the things that could put your checks and your money at risk.