Tampa police are alerting residents about a concerning rise in package thefts this holiday season. As online shopping surges due to events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, thieves see a golden opportunity with unattended deliveries.
Terry Miffitt, a Tampa resident, expressed her concerns, noting the convenience of online shopping but also the risk of package theft. Her husband, Paul, humorously added that stealing from porches seems easier to thieves than confronting security at traditional stores.
The problem of package theft, or ‘porch piracy,’ has seen significant growth. According to Security.org, this issue affected one in four Americans last year, accumulating losses of up to $12 billion. Corie Colliton from Security.org emphasized that despite technological advancements, package theft continues to be a growing concern.
Authorities recommend several preventative measures to protect against this threat. These include scheduling deliveries when someone is home, utilizing secure pick-up locations like Amazon lockboxes, enlisting neighbors to collect packages, or requiring signatures for expensive items. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw urges residents to remain vigilant and take such precautions to ensure a joyful and secure holiday season.
The police also advise residents to report any thefts and share any available doorbell camera footage, which can assist in identifying the culprits. The Tampa Police Department’s initiative is focused on safeguarding the community and curbing the instances of theft.
As online shopping remains a staple of modern consumer behavior, the challenge of securing deliveries persists. By taking proactive steps to safeguard their packages, residents can help mitigate the risks posed by ‘porch piracy’ and enjoy a safer holiday period.
Source: Fox13news
