'Porch Pirates' a threat to your holiday season

Last year, a record 20 billion parcels were shipped in the U.S. and a survey found 43% of Americans had a package stolen. Global supply chain issues caused by the pandemic will exacerbate matters by disrupting delivery times this holiday season.

CCTV Camera World recently released a study on the Rise of Package Theft in America using FBI crime data through 2020. The rankings were determined by analyzing larceny-theft in each state, the crime category that includes package theft.

Facts: Washington D.C. ranks No. 1 with 3,775 crimes reported per 100,000 residents while Massachusetts and Idaho residents reported 912 per 100,000.

· Larceny-theft was the most reported crime in 2020 with 2.4 million reports, more than all other crime categories combined.

· Currently, 14 states, including Georgia, have passed, or are considering laws enhancing penalties for porch piracy with many lobbying for the creation of a new crime category specifically covering these incidents.

Here we go:

Tips to Prevent Package Theft This Holiday Season:

1. Enable Tracking and Text Alerts: Most carriers, including Amazon, UPS, and FedEx, will text you when your package has been delivered. Turn this feature on and collect your packages as soon as possible.

2. Install Home Security Cameras: Security cameras serve as a deterrent and have successfully identified porch pirates in the act. Consider smart cameras with AI-based technology that can detect unusual activity including if a package goes missing.

3. Invest in a Porch Lockbox: Companies now manufacture lockboxes designed specifically to receive packages. The lockbox will have a code that you provide to the delivery service so they can open it and drop your package off securely.

4. Control Shipping Location: If you know you will not be home to accept the package, you can have it shipped to work, to an Amazon Locker or pick it up in-store.

5. Ask for nondescript packaging: A package that says Tiffany & Co is likely to pique the interest of any criminal. See if the merchant will use a nondescript box.