There's a reason why the Post Office uses those big locking mailboxes with the locking compartment on the bottom. It's the same reason you should, too.

They do it so people with bad intentions don't steal the mail.

Identity theft is big business-- both doing it and preventing it.

There are two things, however, which will go a long way to preventing your vital information from falling into the wrong hands. A paper shredder, preferably a cross-cut model. And a secure, not just locking, mail box.

So what should you look for when you shop for a secure locking mailbox?

-- A large drop chute with an angled design. Mail should drop into a locked box, where it can wait safely for you to retrieve it. This allows large envelopes and magazines to fall out of the reach of sticky fingers.

-- Plenty of storage room. You want to be able to leave for a few days without having your mail fill the box and stick out the mail slot. A locking mail box with envelopes sticking out defeats the purpose.

-- Sturdy construction. You want your mailbox to look good, and to function properly for years. You also want the mail box to resist attempts to gain entry.

-- Deadbolt locks. Deadbolts are much harder to both pick and pop open than are cheaper spring-type locks.

-- Seperate mechanism for outbound mail. Often this is a clip attached to the outside door box.

Locking mail boxes can either mount on a post, a wall or even built into a pier or pillar to match your home's architecture.

Locks run the gamut, from cheap spring locks to keypad activated deadbolts.

There are enough colors and styles available to enable almost anyone to enjoy mail security without robbing from curb appeal.

Identity thieves are like all other crooks. They look for the easy pickings. Take yourself out of that group by buying and installing a truly secure locking mailbox soon.