Paradise Valley police warn of rising mail theft and offer ways to protect yourself

The Paradise Valley Police Department has seen an uptick in thefts from USPS blue collection boxes, with criminals targeting outgoing mail — especially envelopes containing checks or sensitive financial information. Officers recommend mailing checks from inside a post office, depositing mail close to scheduled pickup times, paying bills electronically when possible, and using permanent black gel ink on checks; report stolen mail or check fraud to your bank and the Paradise Valley Police Department.