Keep your packages safe from porch pirates

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Porch pirate activity has online shoppers on high alert. 17% of Americans falling victim to package theft in the last three months, according to a recent study by Security.org.

Corie Wagner, Senior Editor for Industry Research at Security.org, emphasizes the significance of this issue. "18% of people said that they'd actually had a package stolen containing a gift. So this is really something to be aware of at the holidays. This has happened and it probably will happen this holiday season as well."

Wagner offers advice to protect your presents. One effective measure is to schedule deliveries for times when you're home. This step, is the most common and reliable way to prevent package theft.

Installing doorbell cameras is highly recommended. This can serve as a deterrent to thieves but also provide real-time alerts when a delivery arrives. If you do fall victim, the captured footage can serve as evidence to help law enforcement in their investigations.

In a recent survey, 44% of respondents revealed they had been victims of package theft at some point in their lives, with the median value of stolen packages averaging around $50.

For high-value items such as electronics or jewelry, Wagner advises against leaving them unattended on the porch. "Buy that in store or shop online and pick up in-store," she suggests. 

Research at Security.org extends to evaluating and recommending the best products for home security. For those seeking the most suitable doorbell camera, you can visit security.org.

Click here for the full package theft 2023 report.