Porch pirates are getting smarter – here’s how to keep your packages safe
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are less than a week away, and I’m planning to finish up the rest of my shopping list. I’m also watching my deliveries and so should you.
Porch pirates are going all out to steal your stuff this year. One thief even disguised themself as a bag of trash to swipe someone’s orders. That’s pretty funny, but what’s next sure isn’t.
Pirates are hacking tracking numbers
Thieves are hacking into AT&T and FedEx records to watch tracking updates and swoop in on your packages minutes after they arrive. Apple iPhones are their No. 1 target, because AT&T doesn’t require a signature to deliver them. (I share how to change that below.)
Plenty of thieves just wait and watch or follow drivers and strike once the truck stops. The average gift stolen this year is worth $204. That’s way more than a stocking stuffer.
Free ways to protect your packages
Request a signature: Have someone home to receive the package, especially if it’s something expensive. Amazon can email you a secure passcode you have to give to the delivery driver in person for pricey deliveries. Here’s how. A thief won’t have that code!
👉 Use these links to manage your FedEx and UPS delivery preferences and opt into tracking updates.
Get it right to the garage: With Amazon In-Garage Delivery, drivers scan your package for a one-time access code to open your garage door — no repeat access allowed. All drivers undergo a background check; see if it’s available in your area.
Send it to the office: If you can get packages sent to the front desk at work, do it. Just make sure you’re not getting anything delivered you wouldn’t want your coworkers to see. 😳
Try an Amazon Locker: It’s like a smart P.O. Box. Choose a locker, and when your package arrives, Amazon sends a one-time code to your phone to access it. There are 40,000 of them across the country, and they’re in most cities. Use this map to find one near you.
Outsmart ‘em
- A video doorbell like the Ring Doorbell Plus lets you see packages being delivered and speak through the intercom remotely to deter thieves (or at least capture evidence of the crime). As always, you’re better off with a complete security system.*
- The more cams, the better. Thieves don’t know these cheap ones aren’t really recording. (Get a four-pack for under $19!)
- A smart lock like the Eufy C220 gives delivery drivers temporary access to your back garden, garage or hallway via a single-use code.
- A storage bench looks nice on the patio and hides your stuff from someone walking by.
- A porch lockbox like this Keter Delivery Box works well for bigger packages and looks nice!
- Signs are still effective. They’re an inexpensive, proven deterrent.
If someone still gets away with your stuff: Check your credit card benefits. Call the number on the back of your card and ask about purchase or theft protection.
📸 I set up a quick reply on my doorbell camera so it now says, “Smile big for the cops!” Porch pirates don’t stick around for the photoshoot.
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Tags: Apple, deliveries, packages, porch pirates, Ring, security, theft
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