SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Police are warning residents to secure their mail due to a string of mail thefts.
Several counties across the state have also reported an increase in mail theft according to a Santa Barbara Police Department news release.
The offenders are targeting mailboxes to obtain checks and personal information that can be used for identity theft.
Police officials suggest using a mailbox that can be secured with a locking device, depositing outgoing mail at a post office and picking up checks in-person.
Residents can also place a hold on mail deliveries when leaving for vacation and are encouraged not to leave mail in their mailbox overnight.
Mail theft victims can report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at https://www.identitytheft.gov/ and freeze their credit by contacting a major credit bureau such as Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
