How often does mail get stolen

Unfortunately, mail theft is a common problem in many parts of the world. According to various sources, including the United States Postal Service (USPS) and law enforcement agencies, here are some statistics on the frequency of mail theft:

  1. In the United States:
    • The USPS estimates that over 100,000 pieces of mail are stolen every day, which translates to around 37 million pieces per year.
    • A 2020 survey by the USPS found that 1 in 5 households (21%) reported experiencing mail theft in the past year.
    • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) receives over 10,000 complaints about mail theft every year.
  2. In Canada:
    • According to a 2020 report by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, mail theft is a significant problem, with an estimated 1 in 10 households affected.
    • The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) receives over 1,000 reports of mail theft every year.
  3. In the United Kingdom:
    • A 2020 survey by the UK's Royal Mail found that 1 in 6 households (17%) reported experiencing mail theft in the past year.
    • The UK's National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) receives over 1,000 reports of mail theft every year.

It's worth noting that these statistics are likely underreported, as many cases of mail theft go unreported or are not documented. Additionally, the frequency and severity of mail theft can vary significantly depending on the location, with urban areas tend to be more prone to mail theft than rural areas.

To protect yourself from mail theft, consider the following precautions:

  1. Use a secure mailbox or post office box.
  2. Consider using a mail forwarding service.
  3. Keep valuable items, such as checks and credit cards, in a safe place.
  4. Report any suspicious activity to your local authorities.
  5. Consider using a mail tracking service, such as USPS's Informed Delivery, to monitor your mail.

Remember, it's always a good idea to be vigilant and take steps to protect your mail and personal information.