We are only a few weeks away from Christmas, which means that we will soon see a significant increase in the number of packages left at people’s doorsteps. USPS, FedEx, UPS and Amazon's deliveries will all increase because retailers and consumers expect these items that must be delivered before December 24.

This also means that in the next few weeks, thefts of people who steal packages from the owner's door may increase. Those who steal packages are often called porch pirates.

In recent years, as more and more people shop online, and the pandemic causes more people to stay at home instead of going to the store, they just ship products to them, so porch piracy has been increasing.

The porch pirates attacked in different ways. Some people just drove back and forth on the street looking for packages left outside. Some people follow Amazon, UPS, and FedEx trucks into different communities. Some people work alone, while others work in pairs or teams. In addition to walking, crime does not require special skills.

A recent Safewise study concluded that 210 million packages were stolen in the United States last year.

If you are worried about Porch Pirates, here are some thoughts I gathered from ADT, TheFamilyHandyman, WoodTV.

1. Track your package/arrange delivery

Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other companies will allow you to track packages and, in some cases, allow you to schedule the time or time for package delivery. Sometimes, you can also send these packages to your family or friends, or even let your neighbors pick up your packages to prevent them from being stolen.

2. Use the Amazon Hub Locker facility in Lubbock

Of course, it may be located near Texas Tech University, or it may be at the other end of your town, but so what? It will be safe and reliable. When your package arrives, you will receive an email to notify you. After arriving at Amazon Hub Locker, you will get a QR code to scan. Walk in, scan your code, and walk out with your package. Simple.

3. Let FedEx, UPS and USPS deliver goods elsewhere in the city

Did you know that FedEx can ship your package to participating Walgreens locations? UPS and USPS can store packages in their own facilities. It may not be the most convenient option, but we are talking about security, not convenience. Please also remember that if your workplace permits, you can send the package to your workplace. Some people will also deliver your package to neighbors or relatives.

4. Invest in a good porch password box

These are becoming more and more popular, but they may also cost you some money. Some password boxes have a slot for the driver to put in the package, while others require you to provide the driver with the password. These boxes may cost hundreds of dollars, but if people keep receiving packages, they will invest in them. There are cheaper options, such as lock pockets attached to door handles. They cost less, but can be cut open. However, this bag may be enough to deter porch pirates.

5. Put your package elsewhere (not in front of your house)

Amazon, FedEx, and UPS drivers can all be instructed to place packages outside the front door. Amazon Prime members can register for Amazon Key for free. This does mean that your garage needs to be turned into a smart garage through the myQ app. Select "Free Key Delivery" at Amazon checkout, and the driver will scan the package linked to the garage door. Then the driver puts the package into your garage, and then the door is closed. Both FedEx and UPS have tools in which you can instruct the driver to put the package elsewhere.

6. Make it clear that you have family security. very obvious.

Even Porch Pirates doesn't want to mess up the security system. Make it clear that your home is protected by some type of security system. Place signs in the front yard, advertise your security company, and even put stickers on doors and windows.

Porch pirates don’t want to be caught. By installing cameras around your home, you might make them think twice before coming. Make sure you have a doorbell camera or a front door camera. They can take good facial photos but are difficult to remove. Usually, criminals will see the camera and move on. Also, install multiple cameras with different viewing angles. Personally, I am not sure if you can install too many cameras outside your home.

The above ideas are not 100%, but they can help you avoid becoming a victim and things being stolen. If something is stolen, I hope you put them on the camera and they will be caught.

One last tip. Be a good neighbor. Get to know your neighbors and pay attention to each other.