Police Warn of New 'Mailbox Method' Scam Combining Cybercrime and Physical Theft

The National Police have issued a warning about a sophisticated new scam known as the "mailbox method." This criminal tactic is particularly dangerous because it combines digital identity theft with physical robbery, marking a worrying shift in how organized crime groups operate.

The scam begins with a fraudulent text message claiming to be from your bank. The message warns of unauthorized activity or suspicious transactions on your account, creating a sense of urgency. When the victim calls the number provided in the text, they are tricked into sharing verification codes. Under the guise of "fixing a technical issue," the scammers use these codes to authorize unauthorized fund transfers from the victim's account.

What makes this scam unique is how it moves from the digital world to your front door. Once the criminals have gained the victim's trust, they escalate the pressure by claiming that the victim's valuables—such as cash, jewelry, or credit cards—are at risk. They instruct the victim to place these items in their own home mailbox, promising that a courier will collect them overnight for "safekeeping." In reality, this is simply a way to facilitate a physical theft.

This trend highlights how scammers are increasingly blending cybercrime with traditional intimidation. Security forces are urging the public to be extremely cautious with any unsolicited messages that ask for sensitive information or unusual actions. If you believe you have been targeted, it is vital to report the incident to the National Police or the Civil Guard immediately. Filing a report is essential, as it helps authorities track these patterns and protects others from falling victim to the same scheme.