Abstract: The present invention provides a protective device for a mailbox assembly and corresponding methods for protecting a mailbox assembly. The protective device includes an upper shield adapted for attachment to a mailbox and a lower shield adapted for attachment to a mailbox post. Outer surfaces of the upper and lower shields are contoured to deflect forces away from the mailbox and the mailbox post, respectively. For example, the outer surfaces of the upper and lower shields may have rounded surfaces. Alternatively, the outer surfaces of the upper and lower shields may have angular surfaces. The lower shield may be contiguous to the upper shield. The upper shield and the lower shield can be formed as a single unit. The shields may be provided separately from the mailbox and post, or formed integral to the mailbox and post.