Security Alert: Protect Yourself from Mail Theft

Mar 18, 2026 | 2 Minute Read

Mail theft is on the rise across the country, with more than one million items stolen last year. What may seem like a minor inconvenience can quickly lead to serious issues, including check fraud, identity theft, and financial loss. Understanding how these scams work—and how to prevent them—can help protect your accounts and personal information.

How Mail Theft Scams Work
Criminals often target residential mailboxes and public collection boxes to access sensitive financial information. Items like bank statements and checks can provide details such as your account number, routing number, name, and address. Once obtained, this information may be used to:

  • Create counterfeit checks using your account details

  • “Wash” stolen checks by removing ink and altering the payee or amount

  • Commit identity theft using personal information found in your mail

How to Protect Yourself
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk:

  • Monitor your accounts regularly for unauthorized transactions

  • Enroll in eStatements to avoid having sensitive documents delivered by mail

  • Avoid placing outgoing mail in your home mailbox—especially with the flag raised

  • Use a USPS collection box or take mail directly to the post office

  • Shred sensitive documents before discarding them

  • Use electronic payment options whenever possible, such as digital banking or automatic bill pay

  • If mailing a check, use a gel pen with permanent black ink to help prevent alteration

Why eStatements Are a Safer Choice
Switching to eStatements is one of the easiest ways to reduce your exposure to mail theft. With EVB Digital Banking, your statements are:

  • Delivered securely through password-protected access

  • Available immediately—no waiting on the mail

  • Stored safely, with access to several years of statement history

How to Enroll in eStatements
Getting started is simple:

  • Log in to EVB Digital Banking

  • Navigate to Accounts > Documents > Delivery Settings

  • Select “Online” for statement delivery

You can also stop by any EVB location, and a team member will be happy to assist you.

If you suspect mail theft or notice suspicious activity on your account, contact Elkhorn Valley Bank right away. Taking quick action can help minimize potential loss and keep your information secure.