Amazon Declaring War On Porch Pirates At Height Of Shopping Season

CONNECTICUT — With the 2025 holiday online shopping season in full swing, Amazon is offering tips to thwart any tampering and thefts by porch pirates.

"The vast majority of Amazon packages make it to our customers without issue, but we know how disappointing it is when porch pirates strike," Amazon officials said. "That's why we have notification and tracking technology integrated into our delivery process in addition to several convenient package delivery options."

They continued, "This year, we've partnered with the National Sheriffs' Association, a network of more than 3,000 sheriffs across the U.S., in a nationwide effort to raise awareness about proactive steps you can take to best protect your packages."

Amazion is offering five tips to protect packages.

1. Track Packages in Real Time - Use Amazon's Map Tracking feature on Amazon.com or through the app to keep an eye on upcoming deliveries. Real-time tracking when the driver is close lets customers plan to be home or arrange for someone to retrieve a delivery immediately.

2. Pick Up at Secure Locations - Customers can pick up orders at more than 25,000 package pickup locations nationwide. Choose Amazon or partner locations to avoid porch exposure.

3. Share Tracking with Trusted Contacts - Amazon Share Tracking allows customers to share tracking details with family and friends if not home so they can pick up packages. "This ensures someone you trust can secure your delivery," officials said.

4. Specify a Hidden Drop-Off Location - Direct a delivery driver to leave packages in a discreet location via the app or website to keep packages out of view. Options include behind a planter or a large decoration, or another location out of view.

5. Choose a Delivery Window -= Same-Day Delivery customers can choose the delivery window that works best for them in select areas. Schedule deliveries for times when you'll be home to receive them directly.

For more information and additional tips, visit: https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/operations/amazon-porch-pirate-prevention-tips

"We encourage our customers to report any thefts and share any evidence with local police. If you become a victim of package theft, report it to local police and contact Amazon Customer Service through Amazon.com/contact or the Amazon app (available 24/7)," Amazon officials said. "To further discourage scammers, consider lighting a path to your doorstep and keeping porch lights illuminated. This also helps keep drivers safe when they deliver in the dark, and keeping pathways free from ice and snow is also appreciated."

The customers need not be victims, Amazon officials added.

"The holiday season is the perfect time to remind customers of the tips and tools available to help protect their deliveries from porch pirates," said Mike Murphy, Amazon's PR manager for New England. "We've designed our delivery experience to be fast and convenient, and these features put customers in control of that final step — helping ensure their packages get safely into their hands."