A recent rise in mail theft across Whidbey Island led the Island County Sheriff’s Office to release an official warning Tuesday morning.

In an email alert, Sheriff Mark Brown wrote that thieves are looking to steal identities and/or alter checks sent in the mail.

He advised to check mail as soon as possible after its regular delivery time, especially if expecting packages or letters of value. He recommended installing locked mailboxes or use of post office boxes.

“Please keep in mind that it is statistically safer to receive monthly or bi-monthly checks ‘electronically’ than it would be through the mail system,” Brown wrote.

A plum-colored Chrysler PT Cruiser with a dent in the rear hatch was reported by Brown as a possible suspect vehicle.

Report any suspicious activity near mail boxes to 911.