| Home
> Areas
of Focus >
Mail Theft
> Other Devices
 Consider
Other Devices to Protect Your Mail
Is
there a device that would alert me when my mailbox has been opened?
There are two devices we are aware of. One is called Mail
Guard (not to be confused with the MailGuard locking mail boxes
the MSIC promoted in 2003-2004), and is sold by Radio Shack. It
appears to be a discontinued item, but is still available in some
stores. It uses a light-sensitive emitter attached to the inside
of your mailbox door which sends a wireless signal to a receiver
you have plugged into an electrical outlet in your home. It has
a range of around 150 feet. The other device is called Mail Alert,
and is similar to the Mail Guard but has a range of 300 - 600 feet,
depending on what model you purchase. It's available from a number
of E-tailers, one being http://www.outdoordecor.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/online-store/scstore/c-Remotes.html?E+scstore+Google-RemoteSensors-G2.
Why
should I invest in a paper shredder?
Any mail that contains personal information about you,
especially credit card, Social Security, or bank numbers, can be
used by a thief to use your identity for criminal purposes. Before
tossing paper with this information, either in the trash or in paper
recycling bins, put it through a paper shredder. ALWAYS use a cross-cutting
shredder; thieves can (and will) piece back together material shredded
with a parallel blade shredder. Cross-cut (or confetti) shredders
are available at office supply outlets, Costco, etc
Return
to Mail/Identity Theft Home Page |
