As the holiday season ramps up, so does the risk of package theft and delivery scams. With more people shopping online, ensuring your packages arrive safely has never been more important. Figuring out ways that you can protect your deliveries and avoid falling victim to these common crimes can make your holiday season much more enjoyable.

It’s a scene that’s becoming all too familiar—a package dropped off at the front door, only to be snatched up moments later. Experts say package theft, commonly called "porch piracy," spikes during the holiday season.

The statistics are startling. According to www.security.org, porch pirates stole $12 billion in packages in the past year, and as many as 58 million Americans have become victims in the last 12 months. Kentucky, North Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Alaska have had the highest rates of recent package thefts. One in four Americans have been victimized by porch pirates at some point in their lives. Nine in 10 Americans are worried about stolen holiday packages, and more than a quarter are “very” or “extremely” concerned. Apartment dwellers experience package theft at double the rate of those who live in homes. 14 percent of Americans take no precautions to prevent package theft, and more than 40M people admit to leaving their exterior doors unlocked while away from home

Experts say one way to combat your package being stolen is to track your packages closely and set delivery notifications.  If you aren’t going to be home, consider having your package delivered to a secure location. 

Experts also recommend using technology to your advantage. Doorbell cameras and motion-sensor lights can help deter thieves, while certain apps can provide real-time updates on your package’s location.

Another growing concern: delivery scams. These often come in the form of fake emails or text messages claiming there’s an issue with your delivery. Clicking these links could put your personal information at risk. You should always verify notifications directly with the retailer or delivery company. If something seems off, don’t click on links—go straight to the source.

A neighborhood watch program or simply keeping an eye out for your neighbors' packages can also help curb theft.

With a little planning and awareness, you can ensure your gifts make it safely to your door this holiday season. For more information on package safety, visit https://www.security.org/package-theft/annual-report/