Postal Service expands electronic locks, but critics say progress is too slow
The initiative, known as Operation Safe Delivery, began in 2023 in response to increasing reports of stolen mail and check-washing schemes.
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The U.S. Postal Service has launched a major initiative aimed at combating mail theft, but some experts argue the effort is only scratching the surface of a much larger problem.
The initiative, known as Operation Safe Delivery, began in 2023 in response to increasing reports of stolen mail and check-washing schemes.
Among those impacted is Long Island resident Mike LoMonico, whose stolen check was fraudulently cashed for nearly $5,000.
"It's very scary that we're that unsafe," LoMonico said.
The experience has changed how he uses the mail.
"We pretty much stopped sending checks out and we don't use mailboxes at all," he said. "We go physically to the post office and hand it to them there."
Postal officials say criminals have been exploiting stolen Arrow Keys, which can open every outdoor mailbox within a ZIP code. To address the issue, the Postal Service has begun replacing traditional locks with electronic versions.
Nearly 50,000 mailboxes have already been upgraded with electronic locks. The Postal Service plans to install another 50,000 high-security electronic locking systems capable of disabling keys that are lost or stolen.
However, postal union officials say those figures represent only a tiny fraction of the system.
"Unfortunately, there are over 9 million Arrow Key locks and that accounts for less than one percent," said Frank Albergo, executive director of the Postal Police Officers Association. "So that's not going to do much."
Concerns extend beyond the locks themselves.
A recent audit by the Postal Service's Office of Inspector General found that security procedures designed to track Arrow Keys were not always being followed. Investigators reported finding keys stored near unsecured cabinets, unlocked desks, carrier workstations and even in employees' possession during non-work hours.
The audit also found instances where missing keys were not properly reported.
In response, Postal Service management said it has begun implementing new controls and plans to develop additional measures to strengthen oversight of Arrow Keys.
Whether those efforts will be enough remains an open question.
