Diversion of mail order
A diversion of mail order refers to a situation where a person or entity intentionally alters or redirects a mail order package, often to steal the contents or to commit fraud. Here are some common types of diversion of mail order:
- Theft: A thief intercepts a mail order package and steals the contents, often by posing as a delivery person or by breaking into a residence.
- Fraudulent redirection: A scammer convinces a mail carrier or a delivery company to redirect a package to a different address, often to a location where they can steal the contents.
- Fake delivery: A scammer creates a fake delivery address and has the package delivered to that address, often to steal the contents or to sell the items online.
- Package theft from porch: A thief steals a package from a person's porch or doorstep, often when no one is home.
- Mailroom theft: A thief steals packages from a mailroom or a post office, often by posing as a mail carrier or by breaking into the facility.
To protect yourself from diversion of mail order, follow these tips:
- Track your packages: Use tracking numbers to monitor the status of your packages and receive updates on their delivery.
- Require signature upon delivery: Request that the delivery person requires a signature upon delivery to ensure that someone is present to receive the package.
- Use secure delivery options: Consider using secure delivery options, such as delivering packages to a secure location or using a delivery locker.
- Monitor your credit card statements: Regularly check your credit card statements for suspicious charges or activity.
- Report suspicious activity: If you suspect that your package has been diverted or stolen, report the incident to the authorities and your credit card company.
- Use a package locker: Consider using a package locker service, which allows you to receive packages at a secure location.
- Insure your packages: Consider insuring your packages against loss or theft, especially for valuable or high-value items.
- Use a secure mailbox: Use a secure mailbox or a post office box to receive your mail and packages.
- Be cautious of phishing emails: Be cautious of phishing emails that ask you to provide sensitive information or to click on links that may compromise your security.
- Stay informed: Stay informed about common scams and fraud schemes, and take steps to protect yourself from becoming a victim.