If you receive a suspicious letter or package:
- Handle with care. Don't shake or bump.
- Isolate it immediately.
- Don't open, smell, touch, or taste.
- Treat it as suspect. Call local law enforcement authorities.
If you see anything unusual notify your supervisor immediately.
Suspicious mail may have the following:
- Restrictive markings: "Personal", "Eyes Only", or "Special Delivery"
- Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
- Misspellings of common words
- Excessive weight
- Excessive security materials such as masking tape, string, etc.
- Excessive postage
- Mailed from foreign country
- Addressed to title only or incorrect title
- No return address or can't be verified as legitimate
- Addressed to someone no longer with your organization
- Protruding wires or aluminum foil
- Rigid or bulky packaging
- Oily stains, discolorations, odors
- Lopsided or uneven envelope
- Crystallization or powdery substances on wrapper
- Ticking sound
- Shows a city or state in the postmark that does not match return address
- Damaged envelope or package
Things to look for when opening mail:
- Powders (any color)
- Soil
- Sand
- Liquids of any kind and color
- Oily or soapy residues
- Sticky or adhesive substances
- Flakes
- Crystals
- Fibers
Related links:
Mail Center Security Guide
USPS Anthrax Notice
These guidelines are recommended by the Virginia Department of General Services. Distributed by the University Mail Department November 2001.
Questions? Comments?
Send questions and comments about mail rates or services to mailservices@vt.edu.