Protecting packages from ‘porch pirates’ during the holiday season

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(ABC 6 News) – With many of us expecting deliveries this time of year, package theft is on the minds of many.

According to a U.S. News and World Report survey, home burglaries are down 31 percent since 2020 and down 68 percent from a decade ago.

A study byUNC Charlotte found that 83 percent of would-be burglars look for signs of an alarm, and more than 50 percent would skip the house if they saw an alarm system.

Custom Alarm in Rochester says it’s seen an increase in the number of people requesting new home security systems.

“The holiday season as everyone is doing online shopping we have seen an uptick in porch pirates or packages being stolen off front doorsteps. We have seen a lot more opportunities coming out of that with everyone interested in video doorbells to see when those packages are being delivered,” Custom Alarm Sales manager Brandon Clig.

Clig says there is one area in Rochester, in particular, that’s seen a rise in porch thefts.

“I think in the northeast part of town we have seen an uptick in burglaries going on. We have seen an increase of opportunities in that area for individuals requiring or requesting systems,” Clig said.

Beyond installing a home security system, experts recommend you pay attention to the tracking information on your packages and bring the packages inside as soon as possible.