With package delivery popularity rising amid increased online sales, police warn of ‘porch pirates’ during holiday season
Online sales have become very popular during the holiday season, and that means there’s a subsequent increase of package deliveries this time of year as well.
Unfortunately, this also provides opportunity for thieves to swipe packages that are left in plain sight, even from your own front porch.
As the holiday season marches on, local authorities, including Oneida County Sheriff Rob Maciol, are reaching out to the public with tips to keep in mind.
First off, authorities highly recommend utilizing package tracking and to request a signature upon delivery whenever possible. Also, police encourage folks to try and customize a delivery time.
If for some reason you cannot arrange that, see if there are services that allow your package to be redirected to a trusted neighbor.
When it comes to your property, Sheriff Maciol recommends the use of video doorbells or security cameras to discourage potential thieves and to catch any potential criminal activity.
The term ‘porch pirates’ is common this time of year for thieves who steal delivered packages left on family porches and property.
Check out a full list of tips below:
- Always utilize package tracking to know when your package is out for delivery.
- Request a signature upon delivery whenever possible.
- If you are not home to sign your package, check for services that allow you to automatically redirect your delivery to a trusted neighbor's address.
- Ask a neighbor to keep an eye out for your package.
- Take advantage of technology by installing a video doorbell or security camera to deter or capture photos of a thief.
- Invest in a porch lock box or mailbox sensor.
- Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and USPS offer lockers and post office boxes to keep your packages secure until you pick them up. Some of these services are free.
- Customize Delivery Times - So you receive can your packages near a desired time.
- Ship to the Store - If the retailer has the option, ship the package to the store, some retailers also offer contactless pickup.
- Leave Instructions - Leave instructions for your carrier, and ask them to place package in an area out of plain view.
Oneida County Sheriff's Office image.
