The United States’ Financial Crimes Enforcement Network reports that between February and August 2023, financial institutions filed about 15,417 suspicious activity reports relating to mail theft–related check fraud. These cases accounted for more than $688 million in suspicious activity.
Mail fraud is one of the many issues that concerns everyone, especially those that receive documents or items through mail.
Let’s discuss the nature of mail fraud crimes and why it is important to recognize them.
How Does Mail Fraud Work?
Instances of mail fraud encompass deceptive advertisements, unapproved invoices, and fictitious lottery winnings. But what is mail fraud exactly?
Mail fraud is a criminal activity in which one uses the postal services to trick individuals or organizations out of money. It usually comprises a document that coerces a victim to undertake an act immediately. This type of attack can happen to anyone.
Understanding mail fraud is important so you won’t fall victim to such an act. Spotting these scams and being able to track their operation can save you from trouble. And if you suspect this criminal activity, report it to the authorities immediately. Knowledge is your best remedy against fraudulent plans.
Types of Mail Fraud Scams to Avoid
Various kinds of mail fraud scams play out to dupe the unsuspecting into losing their money. One common kind is the lottery or sweepstakes scam, where you receive a notice that you’ve won. To claim your winnings, you must pay the fee as required.
Another kind of fraud in mailing is committed by deceitful charities operating with the objective of exploiting customers’ compassion and gaining money fraudulently. Phishing scams use fake logos and stolen emails to project authenticity and dupe people into giving their bank details.
Mail check fraud scams usually happen when a person acknowledges a check for more than the true value of merchandise and is instructed to return the balance and amount. The victim will later find out that the check is a forgery or counterfeit, leaving them liable for the money that was refunded.
All of these examples can lead to some significant fraud. So keep a watchful eye and be informed so you won’t fall victim to these scams.
How to Recognize and Avoid Mail Fraud?
Knowing how to recognize and avoid mail fraud can benefit you. If people approach you out of the blue and promise you good money and prizes, then it may be a warning sign that it is a type of scam.
Be suspicious of entities that request personal information or payment. Any legitimate mailing group that receives an inquiry will provide contact details and seldom ask for personal details or money.
Always be clear about the identity of the sender before you act. If in doubt, always consult approved sources or report suspicious emails to the appropriate authorities.
Potential Legal Penalties for Mail Fraud Offenders
According to Orange County fraud defense lawyer Michael Stedman, criminal charges of theft or fraud could lead to time behind bars, fines, and other consequences that could have a negative impact on the rest of your life. Depending on the severity of the crime, one may face heavy fines and imprisonment.
Under federal laws, one may receive up to 20 years of imprisonment after committing mail fraud. Fines go all the way up to $250,000 for individual offenders or $500,000 for the organizations.
A part of the restitution of victims’ losses would also be ordered through the court against the defendant. These legal actions could be financially draining. A mail fraud conviction can also possibly further damage your integrity and sense of livelihood.
Ways to Protect Yourself From Mail Fraud
Don’t think that guarding against mail fraud is tedious. These are actually very simple actions that could protect you immensely.
Always shred personal information before discarding it. Always question mail that you receive when you have not solicited it, it seems too good to be true, or anything like that. Verify who the sender is before you buy in.
Use a lock mailbox to stop theft. Maintain a regular check on your bank transaction statements to make sure there are no unusual transactions. If expecting important mail, arrange to track its delivery service.
Last but not least, keep yourself well informed of scams and have a silent arrest warrant to protect you. Following these steps can reduce the chances of falling victim to mail fraud.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Mail Fraud
Report a fake email early so it will not escalate and cause more damage. Take note the moment you see anything suspicious and get all the necessary pieces of evidence in one place, including making photocopies of the suspicious email and write down who the sender is and when it arrived at your address. It is prudent to write down every possible detail, from the reason why it seems suspicious to any other relevant discussions or events that may have taken place.
If the sender has not classified the email as spam, try replying. Refer the matter to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service via the website or a phone call.
Inform your bank or credit card company about any potential threats to your legitimate financial interests.
Protect your accounts against potential theft by looking out for any unauthorized transaction.
Why You Should Report Mail Fraud?
Immediate actions need to be taken to stop mail fraud and protect oneself as well as the community. People are themselves potential sources of information about fraud and could have a suspicion that could be crucial evidence for authorities to trace down the fraudsters. Each reported incident helps in waging a concerted effort to eradicate criminal deeds and create more awareness and preventive measures around them.
Your report shows your ability and that of your circle to detect and avoid scams; it’s not just about protecting your money, but also your friends, family, and community.
Address any doubts as soon as they arise. Doing so may save you a lot in the end. Remember, in the collective fight against fraudsters, what you can achieve through your actions is very exemplary
To protect the public and yourself, recognition and understanding of mail fraud are fundamental. Being aware of common scams and how to deal with them would help prevent very significant financial loss. Staying alert and reporting suspicious activity is one of the best ways to defend yourself against mail fraud.
