Don't leave checkbooks, wallets, purses, cell phones or valuables in plain view or under a seat. Secure them in the trunk or take them with you. Many of those involve the theft of access devices left inside. Rent a post office box to receive financial mail. Never have boxes of checks mailed to your street address.
Thieves often steal new boxes of checks after postal delivery and before residents return home.
Have checks deposited directly when possible. Never place outgoing mail in an unsecured box. The red flag is a sure signal to thieves that there is valuable information contained inside. DMA Mail Pref. One of principal focuses is on identity theft, with a substantial amount of practical information and advocacy.