The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) has noticed an increase in reports to Action Fraud of fraudsters placing fake letter boxes on residential properties in an attempt to harvest the mail.
Residents are sometimes unaware of the fake letterbox as the fraudsters will periodically remove the item, which may leave notable markings. The mail is then used to open various lines of credit with financial providers in the name of the innocent resident.
The Manchester Evening News recently reported that several residents in Chorlton have seen new boxes appearing against doorways and porches.
A resident in the area said on Facebook that she opened up a fake mailbox on her doorstep to find a letter addressed to her husband from TSB bank. The letter confirmed a £1,000 overdraft agreement, despite the couple never having banked with TSB.
How to protect yourself
- Be vigilant and check for any suspicious activity, tampering of your post/letterbox or for suspicious glue markings on the wall.
- Check all post received from financial institutions, even if they appear unsolicited.
- Consider reporting theft of mail to your local police force and any cases of identity fraud to Action Fraud.
- If you have been a victim of identity fraud consider Cifas Protection Registration.
- If you, or anyone you know, has been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or using the online reporting tool.
Find out more about protecting your personal information.
