Mail theft on the rise

EAGLE LAKE — The First National Bank of Eagle Lake issued a warning about the recent increase in mail theft and check washing as reported by the FBI and U.S. Postal Service.

Thieves alter stolen mail to access funds before the fraud is detected.

Criminals steal checks by taking mail from mailboxes left overnight, removing checks from blue USPS collection boxes after the last pickup, during delivery, or by targeting postal facilities and employees.