Tips to Avoid Porch Piracy this Holiday Season

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Law enforcement agencies often see an increase in the number of parcels stolen during the holiday season – partly because more packages are delivered this time of year and some deliveries are made after sunset when the cover of darkness can conceal a porch pirate.

Porch pirate is the term used for someone who steals packages that were delivered to the front door, or porch, of a home. The best way to prevent porch piracy is through preventative and security measures.

The Las Cruces Police Department provides these tips to help prevent porch piracy:

  • Track deliveries online and try to be home when your package is scheduled for delivery.
  • Require a signature for home delivery packages.
  • When scheduling a delivery, leave instructions where the package can be delivered.
  • Request electronic notification when delivery is made.
  • Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to receive your package at the time of delivery.
  • Create a concealed drop-off zone, possibly using planters or creative landscaping, where packages can be left near the front door and remain unseen from passersby.
  • Utilize a lockbox where packages can be safely dropped.
  • If possible, have the package delivered to your place of employment or a location where you know it can be securely received.
  • Schedule ship-to-store from online retailers that have local stores.
  • Have the package delivered to a FedEx or UPS store, or at your local post office, where it can be held for pickup.
  • Utilize a motion-activated porch light to help deter unwanted guests.
  • Install and use a motion-activated home security system, such as a Ring or Nest doorbell camera, that records video and immediately sends notification of motion to your smartphone.
  • Be a good neighbor and watch for suspicious activity. Immediately call police if suspicious activity is seen in your neighborhood.

Consumers might also consider purchasing insurance for the products they buy at the time of purchase. Insuring items does not prevent them from being stolen but does help provide restitution if they go missing.