Signed, Sealed, Delivered…and Stolen? Protect Your Packages from “Porch Pirates” This Holiday Season
As the holiday shopping season begins, millions of Americans will rely on doorstep deliveries for gifts and essentials. Unfortunately, that convenience comes with a growing risk; the rise of “porch pirates.” These thieves follow delivery trucks or patrol neighborhoods, grabbing packages left unattended on porches, stoops, or apartment lobbies.
The Problem by the Numbers
Package theft has become a serious nationwide issue. A 2024 Security.org survey estimated that 58 million packages were stolen in the past year representing roughly $12 billion in total losses. Unfortunately, Iowa was in the top five states of package theft reports. Roughly one in three Americans say they’ve had at least one package stolen and most victims experience it again.
While package theft can happen anytime, incidents spike sharply during November and December when carriers handle record-high delivery volumes, and many homeowners travel or spend time away from home. The combination of dark evenings, unattended porches, and valuable deliveries creates the perfect opportunity for thieves.
Why Older Adults Are Especially at Risk
Older adults often rely more heavily on doorstep deliveries rather than digital lockers or pickup services and may be less accustomed to using mobile tracking tools or security apps. Additionally, gifts for children and grandchildren such as electronics, jewelry, or personalized items tend to be more expensive, making the losses especially painful. Beyond the dollar value, dealing with refund claims or replacements can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Smart Steps to Prevent Package Theft
Fortunately, there are practical ways to reduce your risk this season:
Track and Plan Deliveries – Sign up for carrier alerts so you know exactly when packages are arriving. Try to be home during the delivery window or ask the carrier to hold the package at their facility.
Choose a Secure Location – Many major retailers and carriers now offer locker pickup or “ship-to-store” options. These alternatives eliminate the need for doorstep delivery altogether.
Keep Packages Out of Sight – If deliveries must come to your home, request that drivers place items behind a pillar, inside a porch bench, or out of view from the street.
Add Security Measures – A visible camera, video doorbell, or motion-activated light can discourage thieves. Even inexpensive devices can make a big difference.
Work with Neighbors – If you expect a delivery while you’re away, ask a trusted neighbor to pick it up or simply keep an eye out.
Act Quickly if Theft Occurs – Report missing packages immediately to the retailer, delivery company, and police. Many retailers will replace or refund stolen items if you act promptly.
First the Packages, Then Your Identity
Package theft isn’t only a loss of property. Thieves can use stolen mail and packages to steal your identity. Many deliveries include bills, credit-card offers, prescription bottles, or boxes with return labels and personal addresses. A thief who obtains that information may attempt to open accounts in your name, impersonate you to a retailer or financial institution or harvest details to answer “security questions” for online accounts.
Peace of Mind for the Holidays
A few minutes of planning can save a lot of stress and protect your gifts and peace of mind. Porch piracy is a crime of opportunity, but with awareness, technology, and a little neighborhood cooperation, you can make sure your packages reach their rightful destination: your hands, not a thief’s.