Most people are determined to defend their homes from burglars, intruders and identity thieves, as they should be. They may have the latest home security setups and internet safety measures. But there's an area that practically every home has that serves as a conduit for all manner of personal information to pass through on a daily basis. That area is the mailbox. Most standard mailboxes offer nothing in the way of security, making them a prime target for people who want to misuse your personal information.
Any home security setup would do well not the neglect the mailbox. A thief doesn't need much information to start causing harm. If they know the mail delivery routes and schedules in your area, they could simply walk up to your unsecured box and take whatever looks juicy before you have a chance to retrieve your items. If they get information about your credit cards or insurance, there's a lot things they could take advantage of.
Bafflingly, most modern mailboxes have minimal security features, if any at all. While neighborhoods with a single mailbox station for the community have a lock and key system, most homes with their own private mailbox have nothing but a door designed only to keep the mail inside. A thief can simply pop it open as easily as you or the mailman. You would likely find it a good idea to get a box designed with security in mind.
A mailbox worthy to protect your mail should be constructed out of thick, tamper-resistant metals and be set firmly in the dirt to prevent them from taking the whole thing. The mail-delivery person should be able to place the mail inside easily through a slot, but it should only be accessible from there by a locked door.
Secure mailboxes are often available at hardware stores or online retailers. They usually aren't overly expensive, and they can be well worth the investment when it means protecting the financial security of your family. Every fortress has its weak points that enemies will target, but by theft-proofing your mailbox, that's one more flaw in your home's defenses that you won't have to worry about.
Any home security setup would do well not the neglect the mailbox. A thief doesn't need much information to start causing harm. If they know the mail delivery routes and schedules in your area, they could simply walk up to your unsecured box and take whatever looks juicy before you have a chance to retrieve your items. If they get information about your credit cards or insurance, there's a lot things they could take advantage of.
Bafflingly, most modern mailboxes have minimal security features, if any at all. While neighborhoods with a single mailbox station for the community have a lock and key system, most homes with their own private mailbox have nothing but a door designed only to keep the mail inside. A thief can simply pop it open as easily as you or the mailman. You would likely find it a good idea to get a box designed with security in mind.
A mailbox worthy to protect your mail should be constructed out of thick, tamper-resistant metals and be set firmly in the dirt to prevent them from taking the whole thing. The mail-delivery person should be able to place the mail inside easily through a slot, but it should only be accessible from there by a locked door.
Secure mailboxes are often available at hardware stores or online retailers. They usually aren't overly expensive, and they can be well worth the investment when it means protecting the financial security of your family. Every fortress has its weak points that enemies will target, but by theft-proofing your mailbox, that's one more flaw in your home's defenses that you won't have to worry about.
About the Author:
Jim Tibbe Homes contributed this article. We have built a reputation of providing high-end new homes in Grand Rapids Michigan, and giving you the best possible home for your money.