USPS says it's expanding its Project Safe Delivery crime prevention initiative.

The Postal Service plans to install 12,000 high security blue collection boxes nationwide to make access to mail more difficult for criminals. The agency also plans to replace mail carriers' antiquated arrow lock keys with 49,000 electronic locks.

USPS will offer enhanced in-person change of address transactions starting May 31. Customers seeking a change of address will now receive a validation letter at their old address and receive an activation letter at their new address. The Postal Service will no longer accept third-party change of address submissions.

USPS says residents can take several actions to prevent mail theft: -Don’t let incoming or outgoing mail sit in your mailbox. Reduce the chance of being victimized by removing your mail from your mailbox every day.

-Deposit outgoing mail through a number of secure manners including inside your local post office, at your place of business, or by handing it to a letter carrier.

-Sign up for Informed Deliver and get daily digest emails that preview your mail and packages scheduled to arrive soon.

-Become involved in neighborhood watches and local social media groups to spread awareness and share information.

-Keep an eye out for your letter carrier. If you see something that looks suspicious, or you see someone following your carrier, call 911.

Customers are encouraged to report stolen mail as soon as possible by submitting an online complaint to the Postal Inspection Service here or calling 877-876-2455.