The holiday season often brings a surge in online shopping, but it also fuels a spike in package theft. Recently, criminals have been exploiting stolen tracking information to intercept valuable shipments, with iPhones being among the most sought-after targets.
How the Thefts Happen
These thieves—commonly called “porch pirates”—monitor shipments using compromised tracking data, allowing them to swoop in shortly after delivery. Reports suggest that iPhones purchased through AT&T and shipped via FedEx are frequent targets, partly because signature requirements aren’t always enforced for expensive items. That gap in security creates easy opportunities for theft.
Some cases point to tracking data being stolen through system breaches or digital hacks, though companies have yet to confirm these issues publicly. The lack of transparency has raised questions about where responsibility lies when such thefts occur.
Where It’s Happening Most
The East Coast has seen the highest concentration of these crimes, with states like New York, Massachusetts, and Florida reporting significant numbers of incidents. Texas and Virginia have also experienced a sharp increase. While authorities have made some arrests, many cases remain unresolved, highlighting the challenge of curbing this type of theft.
What Consumers Can Do
Shoppers aren’t powerless, though. Several steps can help reduce the risk of stolen deliveries:
- Request a signature: Ensure packages can’t be left unattended.
- Use secure delivery boxes: Locked storage solutions keep items safe until pickup.
- Opt for in-garage delivery: Services that allow packages to be placed inside garages or secure areas add extra protection.
- Install video doorbells: Real-time alerts and two-way communication can deter would-be thieves.
Staying One Step Ahead
As criminals become more sophisticated in exploiting tracking data, consumers need to take extra precautions—especially during the holidays when deliveries are most frequent. Simple preventive measures can make the difference between a joyful unboxing and a costly disappointment.