How to Identify Suspicious Envelopes or Packages
- Excessive postage
- Handwritten or poorly typed address
- Incorrect title
- Title without name
- Misspelling of common words
- Oily stain, discoloration, or odor
- No return address
- Excessive weight
- Lopsided or uneven envelope
- Protruding wires or aluminum foil
- Excessive security material such as masking tape, string, etc.
- Visual distractions
- Ticking sound
- Restrictive endorsements, such as “personal” or “confidential”
- City or state in the postmark that does not match the return address
For Suspicious Unopened Envelopes or Packages Marked with Threatening Messages:
- Do not touch, shake or empty the contents of any suspicious envelope or package.
- If you have already picked up the package, place it on a stable surface. Do not sniff, touch, taste or look closely at it or any contents that may have spilled.
- Leave the room and close the door or section off the area to prevent others from entering (i.e., keep others away).
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Report the incident to Public Safety.
- If possible, list all people who were in the room or area when the envelope or package arrived. Give this list to responding authorities.
