“Porch Piracy,” how to prevent package theft during the online holiday shopping season

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – During the holiday season, along with travel, dining, family visits and the traditional Thanksgiving sports competitions; Online shopping, including Black Friday, Cyber ​​Monday and the days leading up to Christmas, is part of the routine for many Americans.

Over the past few decades, as more people shop online in search of the perfect gifts to avoid crowded stores and heavy traffic, others have seized the opportunity to steal the delivered packages right from the porch, in what is known as “porch piracy.” has become. ”

According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), a recent study released by Security.org found that package thieves stole over $18 billion worth of goods last year. In Virginia, 6% of people recently had packages valued at $65 stolen.

According to the BBB, Porch Pirates target homes that they can enter and exit quickly, have easy access to a porch, and are approximately 25 feet or closer from the street and have good visibility. They often prey on neighborhoods or a community before leaving the area.

However, the BBB has some great tips and strategies for you to prevent or deter package theft during the online holiday shopping season.

Do not leave packages unattended:

• If you are expecting a package, try to schedule delivery at a time when you know you will be home. If you’re not home, have them delivered to work instead.
• Ask your neighbors if they mind keeping the packages delivered if you plan to be away for a long time.
• Some retailers (like Amazon, a BBB accredited company) offer “garage delivery” to avoid leaving packages out in the open.
• Track packages and request targeted drop-off when you or someone you know is home: Most delivery services allow you to track the package until delivery. If possible, try to be home at the estimated delivery time.
• Insure valuable items: Take out delivery insurance to protect the goods from loss or damage. Contact local police if you are a victim of package theft.

Ship to store, storefront or PO box:

• If you purchase an item from a retailer with a physical location near your home, consider shipping it there instead. Retailers require proof of purchase or ID before releasing received packages.
• Some online retailers offer delivery to a pickup location at another store that has a physical location near you. Check your delivery options when ordering.
• If porch pirates are often in your area, consider renting a PO box to accept package deliveries. The cost may outweigh the headache.

Use a security camera:

• Keep the porch well lit: Good lighting can help neighbors spot thieves in front of houses.
• Installing a home security system with cameras or a video doorbell is a great way to prevent package theft, especially if they are highly visible. Consider posting a sign that specifically states that the home is being monitored.
• Set up your camera alerts so you know exactly when the package will be delivered.
• Even if a package is stolen from your porch, video evidence will help law enforcement track down the thieves (but be aware of the risk of internet-connected devices and do your research before purchasing).
• If Wi-Fi can be activated via the camera, you can also keep an eye on the porch remotely and notify the police if you spot any suspicious activity. Many police departments also have partnerships with Ring Doorbell to combat porch pirates.

Require a signature:

• Many delivery companies offer the option to require a signature before sending a package, allowing you to take physical possession of the package immediately upon delivery. While this option works well for those who are home often, especially for expensive items, you may experience difficulty receiving packages if your schedule and delivery service are different. Therefore, inform yourself.
• Be sure to check with the delivery company about their policy on packages for which you have not received a signature. You can return it to sender after a certain number of attempts.
• Hold mail while traveling: The U.S. Postal Service offers to hold mail when you travel for the holidays. Holding will ensure you are home at the time of delivery.

Sign up for notifications:

• Most retailers provide tracking details with links to delivery services; Some even send you their own emails to let you know when something lands on your porch. Sign up for shipping-related emails.
• Set up your own notifications with your smartphone or app to remind you of the expected delivery date and time.

If you are a victim of porch mail theft:

For more online shopping resources and tips, visit BBB.org/OnlineShopping. You can also report scams to the Better Business Bureau at BBB Scam Tracker.