This is the season for giving, but “porch pirates” see it as the season for taking. Porch pirates sneak into yards and steal packages left on doorsteps and millions of Americans have fallen victim to this crime. As online shopping increases, so do the reported incidents of package theft. Some creative thieves actually follow delivery trucks, scooping up packages as they are dropped off.

Avoid Porch Pirates by following these 6 tips: 

1. Request notifications of your deliveries, via phone, text message or email.

2. Monitor your packages in transit and upon delivery.

3. Always require a signature on your deliveries to ensure packages are never left unattended.

4. Consider sending deliveries to an alternate location where someone will be able to receive them, or to the shipping company’s pickup location.

5. Schedule your deliveries for a date and time when you will be home.

6. Set up a vacation hold when you are traveling so gifts won’t be left the doorstep.

7. Call your local police department if you become a “Porch Pirate” victim.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice. No recipient of this content should act or refrain from acting without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice.