If you receive mail that appears to have been opened, it's essential to assess the situation quickly to ensure the security and integrity of its contents.
Initial Steps When You Discover Opened Mail
Discovering your mail has been opened can be concerning. Sometimes, this might be due to machine damage during processing. However, it's crucial to investigate further to rule out tampering.
1. Inspect the Packaging Thoroughly
- Examine the Envelope or Package: Look for any tears, rips, or cuts that seem intentional rather than accidental.
- Check for Resealing: See if the mail has been poorly resealed using different tape or glue, or if the original seal was tampered with and then re-adhered.
- Note Any Unusual Markings: Pay attention to any new stamps, labels, or handwriting that shouldn't be there.
2. Crucially, Check for Missing Contents
After your initial inspection, the most vital step is to check to see if anything is missing. Compare the received contents with what you were expecting. This is especially important for:
- Documents: Financial statements, legal papers, personal identification.
- Valuables: Checks, gift cards, small items, or anything of monetary or personal value.
What to Do If Contents Are Missing or Tampering Is Suspected
If you determine that items are missing or if you strongly suspect your mail has been tampered with, prompt action is necessary. We take the security of your mail seriously, so let us know if you think your mail has been tampered with.
| Observation | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Suspected Machine Damage | Note the damage, check contents. If all is present and no tampering, no further action usually needed. |
| Missing Contents | Immediately proceed with reporting and documentation. |
| Signs of Intentional Tampering | Do not discard the packaging. Document everything and report. |
Steps to Take When Reporting
- Document Everything:
- Take clear photographs of the opened envelope or package from all angles.
- Make a detailed list of any missing items or discrepancies.
- Keep the original packaging, even if damaged, as evidence.
- Contact the Sender:
- Inform the person or organization who sent the mail about the issue. They might need to re-send documents or can provide proof of what was originally sent.
- Report to Your Local Postal Authority:
- Reach out to your national postal service (e.g., U.S. Postal Inspection Service for the U.S., Royal Mail Help Centre for the UK) to report suspected mail tampering or theft. Provide them with all documented evidence. Always refer to your country's specific postal authority for guidance.
- Monitor Your Accounts and Information:
- If sensitive information (like bank statements, credit cards, or identification) was potentially compromised, regularly monitor your bank accounts, credit reports, and other financial statements for any suspicious activity.
- Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file with major credit bureaus (e.g., Equifax, Experian, TransUnion in the U.S.). For U.S. residents, you can access your free credit reports annually from AnnualCreditReport.com. For other regions, check with your national credit reporting agencies.
Protecting Your Mail in the Future
While you can't control every aspect of mail delivery, you can take steps to enhance the security of your incoming mail:
- Use a Secure Mailbox: Consider a lockable mailbox if your area is prone to mail theft.
- Opt for Digital Communications: Whenever possible, choose electronic statements, bills, and communications to reduce the amount of sensitive physical mail you receive.
- Track Important Packages: Utilize tracking services for valuable or time-sensitive deliveries.
- Promptly Retrieve Mail: Avoid leaving mail in your mailbox for extended periods.
