EAST POINT, Ga. — Nicole Woods started to realize several important letters and packages just weren't showing up in her mailbox.
"It’s frustrating because when you call the senders they don’t you’re telling the truth, they're looking at you like you're lying and ‘ I'm like I really didn't get it,’ ” said Woods.
Soon the East Point mom learned her identiy was stolen. Credit cards and other accounts were opened in her name.
“It’s uncomfortable and it’s unsettling,” said Woods.
East Point Police say Woods’ situation is happening often. Thieves know there’s an increase in sensitive information coming through the mail, according to Major Shawn Buchanan.
“During tax season, this is the prime time for suspects to steal your idtentiy.” said Buchanan.
Woods like many, pays her bills online, and says she would typically only check her mail when she was expecting something important to arrive.
“Seeing mail pile up is what signals to thieves they could steal your mail without you realizing it for weeks,” said Buchanan.
Here are a few tips Major Buchanan has to avoid becoming a victim:
- Check your mailbox often
- Put a lockbox on your mailbox
- Install a camera near your mailbox that thieves will notice
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