The Benton County Sheriff is warning of an increase in mail theft lately and that it could lead to identity theft later. Police admit to a large number of mail theft over the holiday season with packages and warn to keep a watch for identity theft according to news reports. People were also looking for credit card statements, utility bills, or anything that they could use to steal your identity. The Sheriffs department admits they have seen more of these kinds of crimes lately.

One way they say you can avoid mail theft is by not putting the flag up on your box when mail should be picked up. Usually outgoing mail would be bills with checks inside that they could use to steal your money among other things. They say you can buy individual locked mail boxes to keep your mail secure or get a more secure box at the post office. If you think you might be a victim of identity theft, contact the authorities so they can start an investigation.

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