What is a Porch Pirate?
Porch Pirates are people who steal packages from other peopleā€™s homes. This is a crime of theft like any other. Why do people do this? Often Porch Pirates are hoping there is valuable merchandise in the packages they are stealing. There is an increase in package thefts during the holiday season as more people are ordering online and having items delivered to their homes.
What can I do?
Have packages held at your local post office
Have your packages held at USPS during the holidays if possible or at a secure delivery location if through another service to protect your items.
Install security cameras
Installing home security is a great way to deter package theft. Equip your home with a sign stating your house is under surveillance. Even if the package is stolen, the video evidence can be beneficial to law enforcement to track down thieves and repeat offenders.
Donā€™t leave packages left unattended for long periods of time
If you are expecting a delivery, consider being home during the delivery window or setting the delivery window for a time someone will be in the home to receive the item.
Ship the item to the store
Retailers can hold items and require proof of purchase or identification before pickup. This is a sure way to protect your items from porch pirates.
Require a signature
Many delivery companies will offer the option to require a signature upon delivery of a parcel. This option may be beneficial to those who are looking to deter thieves from package theft.
If you fear your package has been stolen, file a report with your local police department and the delivery company. Depending on your delivery service, they may offer to reimburse you for your losses.
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