Across the country, people go to collect their mail only to find that their mailbox has been smashed, defaced with spray paint, or simply destroyed with brute physical force. Mailbox vandalism is a rampant issue for many people all over the U.S. Unlocked, aluminum boxes were once the norm, but now many consumers who make the switch to a locking mailbox never go back. Locking mailboxes don't just provide a secure place for mail to land- a good-quality locking mailbox like ours will also withstand vandalism attempts.
Mail theft often leads to identity theft
In addition to the prevalence of mailbox vandalism occurring in the US today, mail theft and identity theft is another reason that consumers have turned to vandal proof security mailboxes. While a baseball bat can destroy your mailbox and put you short $50-$100, someone else may loot your mail, collect your personal information and steal your identity. If a criminal violates your mailbox and is able to steal your personal information, you may be set much farther back than $50. Victims of mail and identity theft spend thousands of dollars and countless hours to clear their good names.
What to look for in a locking mailbox
When considering a locking mailbox, there are a few key features that you should look for:
- A body made of heavy-gauge steel (at least 16-gauge, preferrable 14-gauge or 12-gauge) and never aluminum or plastic, materials that can be easily violated.
- A secure locking mechanism, such as the Mail Boss anti-pry device to prevent leveraged entry.
- Securely placed in the ground with either an in-ground or surface mount post and secured with concrete or heavy-duty bolts.
While a vandal proof security mailbox is more expensive than cheaper counterparts, it is just certainly worth the investment. By eliminating the need to replace your cheaper mailbox every time it gets damaged or tampered with, a higher-quality, secure mailbox pays for itself many times over. More importantly, a locking mailbox will protect your family and your credit from the perils of identity theft, making it well worth the investment.
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