Porch piracy is the term used for theft that occurs when someone steals packages from a person’s porch or doorstep.
This crime has been on the rise in recent years, as more and more people are shopping online and having their purchases delivered to their homes.
Porch piracy can be a costly and frustrating experience, but there are some things you can do to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
Here are six facts about porch piracy that every shopper should know.
1. Porch Piracy Incidents Are Very Common
There are a few reasons for the increasing incidents of porch piracy in America.
One reason is that more people are shopping online and having items delivered to their homes. This gives thieves more opportunities to steal packages.
Another reason is that many people do not have the security measures to bar access to their porches, making stealing boxes an easy task for thieves.
Finally, some people are desperate and will take anything they can get their hands on, including packages from porches.
2. Package Theft Costs Consumers A Lot Of Money
Package theft costs consumers an estimated $25 million per year. That’s an average of around $200 per package.
While many companies do their best to replace or refund lost parcels, there is no guarantee that they will. This often leaves customers losing the initial cost of the item plus the cost of ordering it again.
3. Porch Piracy Has Affected How Buyers Shop
As package theft becomes more prevalent, customers are forced to take extra precautions to ensure their packages are not stolen.
This may include requiring a signature for delivery, choosing to pick up their package in-store instead of having it delivered to their home, or avoiding online shopping altogether.
Surveys show that over half of respondents have altered their schedules to be able to pick up a package at home.
4. Porch Piracy Is A Felony Offense
Porch pirates often get away with package theft and continue to do it despite harsh penalties if caught.
That’s because it’s difficult to catch them in the act. They typically strike quickly at times when nobody is home, even during the day.
Homeowners often don’t know their packages have been stolen until they get home from work or wake up in the morning. By then, the porch pirate is long gone.
Some thieves are brazen enough to snatch packages even knowing someone is home.
5. You Can Keep Your Packages Safe From Porch Pirates
There are a few ways to protect yourself from package theft.
One way is to have your packages delivered to package storage and receive services like Stowfly. Your parcels will be stored in a secure location until you can pick them up.
Another way is to have your packages delivered to a friend or family member’s house. This way, you will know that your packages are safe and sound.
You can also consider installing a package lock box on your property, but make sure that it is secure and tamper-proof.
6. Victims Can Recover Their Missing Packages
There is no guaranteed way to get a stolen package back, but there are a few things victims of package theft can do to recover their lost items.
The first step is to contact the shipping company and file a claim. They may be able to track the package and locate it.
Next, reach out to the police. Filing a police report will create a record of the theft, which may be helpful if the package is recovered.
Conclusion
Crimes like porch piracy may look petty. They are a nuisance nevertheless.
These facts and statistics about porch piracy must have got you on alert.
Being proactive and securing your online deliveries is your best fight against porch piracy. If you’re expecting an important or urgent package, it becomes necessary that you receive them in person or at a secure location.
