According to Finder, in 2021 around 35.5 million Americans had a package stolen this past year coming out to about 5.4 BILLION dollars worth of package theft.

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What exactly is a porch pirate?  From Dictionary.com, it's a thief who takes packages left outside doors by couriers.

Who's the victim

All of us.

According to C+R Research, 14 percent of Americans have fallen the victim to porch pirates in 2022, or 1 in 7 of us has had at least one package stolen from their porch with an average value of around $130. If you haven't fallen victim, 34 percent of us know someone who has had a package stolen from their house.

What can I do?

If you're expecting packages, the best thing you can do is track the package and sign up for a delivery alert and head home once it's delivered.

Install a video doorbell or security system at your home.

Have the package sent to where you work instead of home.

Have your neighbor pick them up for you and hold them.

Buy on line and pick it up at the store.

Require a signature for delivery.

Get a PO box

Provide delivery instructions.  (I've done this a lot, and it's NEVER worked)

Get a mailbox sensor that tells you if your mailbox has been opened.

Invest in a porch lock box.  They run into the hundreds of dollars, so you'd have to weigh out what you order in a year versus the box.

If you're sending packages to someone out of town, let them know when to expect a delivery.

I hope the Grinch doesn't try and steal your Christmas.