Recent statistics from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) indicate an alarming increase in mail theft and robberies targeting mail carriers.
With the rise of digital payment options, traditional methods like mailing checks have become less secure and more susceptible to theft. Recent statistics from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) indicate an alarming increase in mail theft and robberies targeting mail carriers. As a result, it is important for consumers and businesses to be aware of these risks and explore safer alternatives, such as the adoption of secure payment platforms like APX, which speeds up and simplifies billing and payment processing while ensuring client safety.
Increased Incidents of Mail Theft:
- The USPS reports that from October 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023, more than 25,000 cases of mail theft were recorded, indicating a concerning rise in criminal activities.
- Over the same period, more than 300 mail carriers were robbed, highlighting the vulnerability of checks sent through traditional mail channels.
- These figures indicate a higher rate of theft compared to previous years, emphasizing the need for increased caution when mailing personal checks.
Declining Usage of Checks:
- The usage of checks has significantly declined as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience and security of credit and debit cards, as well as digital payment options.
- In 2022, Americans wrote only 3.4 billion checks, a significant drop from nearly 19 billion checks written in 1990, according to the Federal Reserve.
- While check usage has decreased, the average value of checks has risen substantially, making them attractive targets for theft. The average check amount rose from $673 (in 1990, adjusted to $1,602 in today’s dollars) to $2,652 last year.
APX simplifies billing and payment processing, improving cashflow while ensuring the safety and security of client transactions, making it a reliable solution in an increasingly digital and risk-prone world.
Steps Taken by the USPS and the Need for Further Action:
- The USPS acknowledges the rising threat of mail theft and is taking steps to combat crime, including increased security measures, enhanced training for mail carriers, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
- However, experts argue that more needs to be done to protect consumers and businesses, urging individuals to exercise caution when relying on traditional mail for sensitive financial transactions.
The Role of APX in Simplifying Billing and Payment Processing:
- APX offers a secure and streamlined alternative to mailing checks, simplifying billing and payment processing for businesses.
- APX employs robust encryption and data security measures, ensuring the protection of clients’ financial information.
- By providing a digital payment platform, APX reduces the risks associated with traditional mail while offering convenient options for both businesses and their clients.
- APX ensures law firms are paid quickly, speeding up receivables to as short as 2 days.
Mailing checks pose significant risks due to the increasing rates of mail theft and robberies targeting mail carriers. As check usage declines, it is crucial for individuals and businesses to consider safer alternatives. APX simplifies billing and payment processing, improving cashflow while ensuring the safety and security of client transactions, making it a reliable solution in an increasingly digital and risk-prone world.
