How to Stop Porch Pirates

The Grinch isn't the only one who wants to steal Christmas. Like the furry, green grump from How the Grinch Stole Christmas, written by Theodor Seuss Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss) and made into a 2000 film, porch pirates steal your joy by snatching packages right off your porch. And they do this every day, not just during the holidays.

Online shopping is easy and convenient, but unfortunately, door drop-offs aren't always there when you get home. Security.org reports that porch pirates made off with about $8 billion in stolen goods in the past year. It's estimated that 44% of Americans have been victims at some point.

That doesn't mean brick-and-mortar stores are the only alternatives (though we do support shopping local). Use our tips to protect your packages year-round.

1. Add a smart doorbell. "A good smart doorbell camera doesn't just view and record guests and deliveries, it also helps protect homes and property by deterring potential trespassers and thieves," says Jim Nye, chief product officer for Vivint, a smart home security company offering a doorbell camera that sends real-time mobile alerts when packages are delivered and also activates a ring of bright LED lights and a speaker alert when it spots someone interacting with an already-delivered package. Some smart doorbells have two-way audio so you can hear and speak to someone at your door, even if you're not home.

2. Install a security camera. Jim also recommends a security camera designed to work seamlessly with other smart home and security products such as lights and sound.

If you can't go for a security camera with lots of features, opt for lights that come on when motion is detected. Some models let you set motion zones and sensitivity, so the lights only turn on when someone is actually nearby, not multiple times every night.

3. Use home security signs and stickers. Legitimate, authorized signs warn porch pirates that your property is protected by a real-time system or service. Avoid using fake yard signs and window stickers. Savvy porch pirates can spot them and these no-tech measures can give you a false sense of security. Plus, you won't have any camera footage if you're robbed. Fakes can also backfire; using unauthorized signs or stickers can be considered copyright infringement.

4. Make it look like someone is at home. Porch pirates are less likely to risk being caught if they think a home or apartment is occupied. Use apps and smart appliances or devices to turn indoor and outdoor lights or music on and off at different times. Some come with vacation or customizable modes, so you can set a schedule that resembles what you usually do.

5. Add a professional home monitoring service. The prices of monitoring plans vary, so shop around. Most companies will contact emergency services for you if they detect a problem.

6. Install a lock box. Like drop-off boxes that hold packages for UPS or Fed-Ex, these allow delivery people to leave your package in a secure box until you get home and open it with a key or code. If possible, attach the box to a wall or the porch floor so the thieves can't take the entire thing. You also can make your own boxand add a cushion for extra porch seating.

7. Send deliveries somewhere else. If your workplace allows it, have your packages delivered there, or ask a friend or neighbor who is usually home to watch for them. Rent a PO box from the US Postal Service or a company like UPS; just make sure they'll be open when you want to pick up your item and be aware that not all companies will ship to PO boxes. Amazon offers delivery to a secure locker in many locations and will notify you when your order arrives.

8. Get delivery alerts. Some companies let you sign up to track your package by email or SMS, so you know when it's been delivered. Retrieve it as soon as possible, before it attracts a criminal's attention.

9. Request a signature upon delivery. Obviously, this means someone has to be available to sign for a delivery. If they're not, the package will be returned. Then you'll need to pick it up in person or request redelivery, but at least you'll know where it is.

10. Allow inside access. You can give delivery drivers access to your home or garage to leave packages. Walmart + InHome lets authorized delivery people put groceries in your refrigerator. Prime members can choose Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery. These programs have fees, minimum purchase requirements and other terms and aren't available in all areas. Plus, there's always a risk in letting someone into your home when you're not there — the choice is yours. Visit the websites to learn more.

More tips to prevent porch pirates:

• Make sure there's a clear view to your front entrance. Thieves are less likely to approach your home if they think they'll be seen.
• Ask delivery people to leave packages where they're not easy to see, like behind a large planter or at your back door.
• Insure high-value deliveries. No, this doesn't stop porch pirates, but it can protect you if they strike.