BBB CONSUMER TIPS: BBB offers top tips to outsmart porch pirates and delivery fraud

The holidays are quickly approaching, and with them spikes in reports to BBB Scam Tracker regarding delivery-related scams and “porch pirates” – thieves who brazenly steal delivered items from your stoop or porch.

Scammers are aware that many people are expecting package deliveries during this season, making them less likely to inquire about reports of delivery issues. Additionally, thieves realize that more packages will be left unattended on the porches and steps of homes. These scenarios make people more vulnerable to package and delivery fraud during the holidays.

Fortunately, your BBB has several tips to help you identify and avoid delivery-related issues so you can focus on enjoying the holidays with family and friends:

Be on the lookout for phishing text messages or emails claiming to be from delivery companies. It can be difficult to distinguish a valid delivery text from a fake one, but there are common warning signs to look out for. The fake messages usually claim that the sender is having trouble delivering a package or needs an update to your delivery preferences. In both cases a “tracking link” is included, and that is where the problems come into play.

If you click a link in a message from an unknown or unexpected sender, you may be taken to a form designed to obtain personal information and steal your identity. A link can also take you to a site that downloads malware to your computer or phone without you noticing. This could be a virus or even spyware that allows scammers to collect your keystrokes. As you log into your accounts, including your bank accounts, they may keep track of your login information.

Beware of fake ‘missed delivery’ tags or similar calls. In this scam, someone places a note on your door stating that they are having trouble delivering a package to you. They ask you to call a phone number or visit a website to reschedule your delivery, but it’s actually another trick to trick you into sharing your personal information.

In similar cases, you may receive a call from someone claiming to work for a legitimate delivery company. Your caller ID may even show that they are calling through a known delivery company, but it is rare for a delivery company to call you. Caller ID spoofing apps are readily available and are often used by scammers to change their details and trick you into believing you are being contacted by a trustworthy company.

You can take several precautions to ensure safe delivery of your orders and gifts:

Always receive delivery tracking numbers and check shipment progress regularly. If you have ordered gifts to be delivered to your home or directly to family and friends, make sure you always receive delivery tracking numbers and check shipment progress regularly. You only want to verify this using what you confirmed as a valid website for the shipper making the delivery.

As mentioned above, another problem customers face is package theft. According to one Security.org According to research, package thieves stole more than $18 billion worth of merchandise last year.

Many consumers have their packages stolen before they get home from work. Thieves also steal packages from the doorsteps or lobbies of apartment or condominium complexes. Criminals even follow delivery and mail trucks. As soon as a truck leaves, the crooks come in and grab the packages.

Tips to minimize the risk of package theft

• Do not leave packages unattended. If possible, do not leave delivered packages unattended for long periods of time. If you are expecting a package, try to schedule its delivery when you know you will be home. Ask trusted neighbors to pick up and hold one or more packages for you, especially if you plan to be away for an extended period of time. Also consider having the package delivered to your workplace or directly to the address of a trusted friend who you know will be home.

• Sign up for notification services. Most retailers provide tracking data with links to delivery services; some even send their own emails to let you know when something has landed on your doorstep. Sign up for shipping-related emails. Set your own notifications with your smartphone or app to remind you of the date and time of expected delivery.

• Use a security camera. Installing a home security system with cameras or a video doorbell is a great way to prevent package theft, especially if it is highly visible. You can also set camera alerts, so that you know exactly when the package will be delivered. Consider putting up a sign that specifically states that the home is supervised. Even if a package is stolen from your porch, the video evidence can help police track down the thieves.

• Require a signature. Many delivery companies offer the option to require a signature before dropping off a package, so you can take physical possession of the item once it’s delivered. While this option works well for people who are home often, especially for expensive items, it can cause problems receiving packages if your schedule and delivery service differ. Be sure to check with the delivery company about their policies for unsigned packages as they may return them to the sender after a certain number of attempts.

• Ship to store or a designated delivery location. If you purchase an item from a store with a physical location near you, consider shipping it there. Retailers require proof of purchase or identification before releasing packages they have received, and this is a good way to avoid porch pirates.

• Consider a package receiving service. Some major retailers, such as Amazon, offer secure package receiving locations outside your home that you can access with a key or code. Some independent companies also specialize in this service, allowing you to designate another delivery location for your packages and pick them up on the way home.

• PO Box rental: If there are often porch pirates in your area and you plan to do a lot of online shopping, consider renting a PO box to receive package deliveries. The costs can outweigh the headaches.

For more information about holiday shopping and safety, visit BBB’s holiday headquarters at bbb.org/holiday.