🚨 Parcel Theft Alert: December is “Porch Pirate” Season! 🚨
UK residents, beware! There’s a festive problem on the rise this December. “Porch pirates” are targeting doorsteps, lobbies, and flat entrances, swiping parcels left unattended. With an eye-watering £666.5 million worth of parcels stolen across the UK this year, the trend’s becoming a major concern.
Data shows a 77% increase in thefts, with Leicestershire marked as a hotspot. City centres and multi-occupancy buildings are especially at risk, as parcels are often left visible through glass doors.
Why the surge? Changes in delivery practices, like the decline of signed-for deliveries, are being blamed. The National Courier and Despatch Association points out that contactless deliveries during the pandemic made doorstep drop-offs more common, providing easy pickings for thieves.
Gary Winter from Quadient warns it’s becoming a mainstream opportunity for criminals. Thieves love branded sportswear, often resold online or at car boot sales.
So, how can you protect your parcels? Here’s what you can do:
🔹 Opt for signed-for delivery.
🔹 Double-check your address details – incorrect info causes delays and risks.
🔹 Consider delivery to a work address, parcel shop, or locker.
🔹 Avoid leaving parcels in visible or insecure spots.
Couriers need clear instructions like “Don’t leave in visible places.” Retailers can help by anonymising packaging to deter thieves.
Remember, if you fall victim, report it to the police. They’re actively working to catch these criminal gangs and have already made several arrests.
Stay alert, protect your festive deliveries, and enjoy a worry-free holiday season! 🎁🔒 #PorchPirates #ParcelProtection #StaySafe