Letters, parcels, packages and other items delivered by post or courier have been used on occasion to disguise harmful devices and substances.
Most businesses will regularly receive mail and other deliveries, which offers a potentially attractive route into the premises for those wishing to cause harm. Delivered items, which include malicious letters, parcels, packages and anything delivered by post or courier, have been a commonly used tactic by criminals and terrorists.
Due to their operations or affiliations, some businesses may be more at risk of receiving postal threats. A properly conducted risk assessment should give you a good idea of the likely threat to your organisation and indicate the precautions needed, such as having a mail screening process in place.
ProtectUK provides a detailed list of indicators to look out for when dealing with suspicious deliveries, including the item being unexpected, unevenly packed or emitting an unexpected odour. Information about how to deal with postal threats is also available, including the actions you should take upon discovery of any suspicious delivered item.