Scam experts raise caution to porch pirates ahead of Christmas

CHATTANOOGA,TENN. (WDEF)- Christmas can be considered as the season of giving, but to some experts it can also be the season of stealing. 

Scam experts are urging folks to be on alert for porch pirates this holiday season. 

“We are seeing so many people that are willing, especially during the holidays, to go on someone’s property, mailing to their front porch and take packages that are sitting out there waiting to be picked up from the homeowner. So it is unfortunately something that we are seeing at homes and even in apartment buildings, if something’s left in the lobby,” said Michele Mason, President of Better Business Bureau. 

Porch Pirates look for various packages to steal including name brands like Amazon products. 

Mason explains why it is important to be cautious for package thieves.  

“Unfortunately we even see people who will follow delivery trucks and as soon as that truck drives away, go ahead and grab a package,” said Mason. “So that is why you might want to consider alternate ways of receiving that item, rather than taking the risk of the sitting on your potion for just a few minutes.”

According to the Better Business Bureau, porch pirates stole more than $18 billion dollars in merchandise in 2023. 

Mason even sees an increase of reports that packages are being taken this year. 

“We have seen an increase in complaints where someone tells us, the shipping company states the package was delivered, but they did not find anything. That is a good sign that someone actually stole the package. So we know it is happening. People are willing to put a little bit more time right now because they know that the chances are, as they go through a neighborhood, they are going to find some packages sitting out there,” said Mason. 

But in order to prevent porch pirates from coming on your property, 

Mason shares tips to keep your package safe. 

“You do want to review options before you push that purchase button to make sure that you could have it delivered safely. And if you do have to have it delivered to your home. Consider asking a family member or friend to pick that up for you if you can’t get there at a time that it’s going to be showing up.” Mason concluded.