The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has received recent reports of mail stolen from residents’ mailboxes.
Thieves often seek everything from cash, checks and packages to bank account or credit card numbers, the OCSO stated.
The U.S. Postal Service offers these steps to help you protect your mail.
•Remove mail from your mailbox right after delivery
•Place mail on hold if you’re away from home for an extended period.
•Deposit mail in a mail slot at your local post office or hand it to your letter carrier.
•Never send cash or coins.
•Use a locking mailbox, if possible.
•Use online bill pay, when possible, and request on-line statements.
•Don’t use your Social Security number, phone number or driver’s license number on your checks.
•Shred all mail after you have read it.
•Report suspicious activity immediately.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Okaloosa Sheriff's Office: Protect your mail from thieves