Most individuals would not leave personal information such as social security numbers, credit card and bank accounts information lying around for anyone to take. Yet every day, mail with these personal details is left lying in mailboxes where it can be easily accessed. Stolen mail is a serious problem and a major cause of identity theft in today's world.

The incidents of identity theft in this country continue to grow. In fact, a study by the Federal Trade Commission in 2002 estimated that 700,000 people in the United States are victims of identity theft each year. Most are completely unaware of how they've fallen prey to such a crime.

While credit card fraud accounts for the largest percentage of identity theft, it is not the only form. Phone utility fraud, bank fraud and employment related frauds are all growing problems. Personal information gathered through everyday transactions could all be gateways through which criminals can steal one's identity.

It is impossible to completely stop identity theft, but there are steps you can take to minimize your risk, one is a secure mailbox. Your mail holds countless pieces of personal information in the form of bank and credit card statements, renewal forms and utility bills. With a secure mailbox, you can be sure that the only people who have access to your mail are those intended to.