Holiday package deliveries could lead to increase in package thefts
COLUMBIA, Mo., (KMIZ)
Officials are warning about the increased risk of having packages taken from a front door by porch pirates after a busy Cyber Monday.
Shoppers spent a record $12.4 billion on Cyber Monday and $9.8 billion in Black Friday online sales, according to Adobe Analytics.
Amazon said in a news release its sales over the weekend could lead to a record number of packages to be delivered. With those packages to be delivered soon, porch pirates are waiting for the opportunity.
According to Safewise, a safety and security research firm, three out of four Americans have had a package stolen in the last 12 months. Four out of 10 of those same people have been a victim more than once in that time.
Fulton Police Chief Bill Ladwig said that patrols in neighborhoods will pick up and they want to be as visual as possible in order to keep porch pirates away. Ladwig also explained helpful tips to make sure packages stay safe.
"A video doorbell is good if you have one, but better than that, maybe keep, keep a close eye on your tracking number so you know when things are going to be delivered," he said. "Coordinate with neighbors or friends that may be home to keep an eye out and bring those packages in for you."
A United States Postal inspector said USPS has a team dedicated to mail theft and coordinate with local law enforcement. If your package was stolen you are encouraged to contact police and file a report on the U.S. Postal Inspection website or call 1-877-876-2455.
