April 16, 2009
Multi-faceted fight against mail and ID theft problems
With those kind of high numbers, Langley MP Mark Warawa convened a meeting with Canada Post and municipal leaders, as well as RCMP Supt. Janice Armstrong, to discuss the issue of mail theft and ID fraud.
The group talked about a multi-faceted approach.
“While much is going on to combat this problem, the most important factor discussed around the table is community involvement. We need people to be more vigilant and look out for your neighbours,” says Warawa.
Thieves are mostly prying open superboxes. Police have recently arrested seven people for mail and identity theft. As a result, the frequency of mail theft has declined in Langley, says Armstrong.
“We are seeing results from enforcement, but we need the public to also assist us,” she says. “Everyone has a role to play in safeguarding their mail, their property and their identity.”
Canada Post is responding to this threat, and increasing its efforts to ensure the security of the mail, says Colleen Frick of Canada Post.
“We are installing high security locks on mailboxes, tightening the security of mail keys, increasing security awareness amongst our employees and our customers, and are currently testing anti-pry devices on 500 community mail boxes.”
Federally, Warawa is pleased with the Conservative government’s recent re-introduction of legislation that will target identity theft.
“This legislation will provide police with the tools they need to protect Canada’s families, seniors, and businesses from the numerous harms of identity crime.”
Municipally, Township Mayor Rick Green and City of Langley Councillor Rudy Storteboom both confirmed that their planning departments would work diligently with Canada Post to ensure that designs for safer community mailbox locations would be adopted in new developments.
