Abstract: A mail box has a lockable, controlled door or lid, person identifying means such as a card reader for electronic cards of type Smartcard and a key set for entering a personal code. After the mail box has received valid identifying information of a person, the door is automatically opened and a letter can be put into the mail box. In the mail box a marking means is provided that applies a marking to the letter that has been put in. The marking includes the identity of the person and information about the mail box and the time when the letter was put into the box. The mail box can also allow that registered or certified items of mail are put in and then receipts are printed. It can also allow stamping of items of mail put into the box by deducting a postage amount from a balance stored on the card and printing of a receipt for a received item and the payment made. The fact that only persons who can safely identify themselves can enter items of mail generally gives an enhanced security in handling mail.