Don't let that Christmas gift get snatched; See tips to avoid 'porch pirates' this season

Christopher Walker, Wichita Falls Times Record News
·2 min read

Thefts of packages from people's porches happen frequently, but with more people relying on mail-order Christmas presents, WFPD Public Information Officer Jeff Hughes has tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of “porch pirates."

A porch pirate, according to dictionary.com, is a thief who takes packages left outside doors by couriers.

Have your packages delivered to your work

Eliminate the possibility of theft from your porch altogether by having your packages delivered to your work.

Ask a neighbor for help

Set delivery instructions for vendors to leave packages with a trusted neighbor. You can also ask a trusted friend or family member to pick up your packages

Wichita Falls police gives tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of porch thieves.
Wichita Falls police gives tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of porch thieves.

Require a signature

When shopping online, you can check the “require signature” box before checking out. This works when you're home but can lead to a goose-chase trying to keep up with the delivery person.

Use a home security camera

Using a security camera can help catch a package thief. It provides evidence you can give to police for visual information.

From Reviewed.com: The best smart outdoor security cameras of 2021

Get a “Porch Pirate” Bag

These are large, durable bags you can instruct delivery people to put packages in and lock it to something on your porch with a combination lock. This is not a fool-proof solution, but it does help deter potential thieves.

Track your packages

Officer Hughes advised utilizing tracking. Most shipping companies have some sort of tracking system on their website or phone app. Using them will help provide an idea of when your package will be delivered.

Read more: Georgia bill would make porch piracy a felony, but will police be able to enforce it?

Report suspicious activity to the police

If you see something out of the ordinary at your house of a neighbor's and believe it’s suspicious, call the police.

This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Stolen packages? Here are some tips to avoid 'porch pirates'