Protect yourself from mail theft

Published on April 08, 2025

Centralized unit mailboxes in foreground with houses in background

In recent months, we have seen a trend around the Kansas City metro — including here in Lenexa — in which thieves are targeting outdoor U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mailboxes to steal mail containing checks.

These thieves “wash” the checks, a process where they erase written information on the check and write new information such as payee and amount.

So far in Lenexa in 2025, we have seen nearly $500,000 in fraudulent checks written from checks that were stolen from USPS mailboxes.

To protect yourself, follow these tips:

When writing a check, use a gel pen. This ink makes the check difficult to “wash.”
Avoid using outdoor USPS mailboxes, especially after pickup hours and on weekends.
Avoid using neighborhood outgoing mail slots when sending checks or money.
Use the mail slot inside the post office for safer drop-offs.
Consider electronic payments like online banking or apps for added security.
Regularly monitor your banking statements for any irregular activity.