Combating Porch Pirates
While the holiday season generally brings holiday cheer, there are some Grinches who dampen the mood. With online shopping becoming more prevalent, package thieves – better known as porch pirates – have more opportunities to swipe deliveries.
The Better Business Bureau, citing a Security.org study, said package thieves stole more than $18 billion in merchandise over the last year.
Here are some ways – courtesy of the BBB – to discourage porch pirates:
- Don’t leave unattended packages.
Try to schedule a delivery when you know you will be home. If you aren't going to be home, ask a trusted neighbors if they mind holding on to packages. Also. some retailers offer garage delivery.
- Ship to store, storefront or post office box.
Consider shipping to a retailer with a physical location near your home or, if you have one, ship to a post office box that accepts packages.
Installing a home security system with cameras or a video doorbell is a great way to deter package theft, especially when highly visible.
Many delivery companies include the option to require a signature before leaving a package but be sure to check with the delivery company on their policy for packages that are not signed for; they may return it to the sender after a certain number of attempts.
Most retailers provide tracking details with links to delivery services; some even send their own emails to let you know when something has landed on your stoop.
If you fear your package being stolen, file a report with your local police department and the delivery company. Depending on your delivery service, they may offer insurance or other policies to reimburse you for your losses.
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