Feds Warn About New Elaborate Porch Pirate Scam In Michigan
Porch Pirates somehow keep on coming up with creative ways to steal form hard working people.
The latest way has now gotten so bad that the FBI is getting involved.
⬇️ Porch Pirate Thefts Targeting iPhones via FedEx Tracking Numbers ⬇️
Porch pirates are becoming a serious problem in the U.S., especially when it comes to stealing new iPhones shipped by AT&T via FedEx.
These thieves are using tracking numbers to plan their thefts, often arriving just moments after delivery drivers drop off packages on doorsteps.
This growing issue has led to a federal investigation, with law enforcement agencies working hard to tackle the rise in these crimes.
The FBI is now involved, and reports of thefts have come in from states like New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Michigan, Florida, and Texas.
How It Works
Thieves seem to have found clever ways to get tracking information.
In some cases, they have lists of tracking numbers that tell them exactly when and where deliveries are happening.
This has raised concerns about possible inside jobs, with experts suggesting that some employees might be leaking information.
Video footage from doorbell cameras shows these porch pirates in action.
They often wear delivery vests to blend in and swoop in just seconds after the FedEx driver leaves.
For example, one woman from Texas reported that five iPhones she ordered were stolen in just seconds while thieves drove by her home several times before the delivery.
🚨🚔 Law Enforcement Response 🚔🚨
In response to these thefts, police departments across the country are stepping up their efforts to catch these criminals.
Recently, a sting operation in Oklahoma City led to the arrest of eight people linked to a larger crime ring that stole nearly $7 million worth of electronics.
Authorities are investigating how these suspects got their tracking information and are working closely with AT&T and FedEx to put preventive measures in place.
AT&T has stated that while they do not require signatures for deliveries—unlike Verizon and T-Mobile—they are reviewing their policies for better security.
😭 Don't Become a Victim 😭
Consumers are encouraged to take steps to protect their deliveries from porch pirates:
Request Signature Confirmation: Choose signature-required delivery options whenever possible.
Schedule Deliveries Wisely: Arrange for deliveries when you can be home or use secure pickup locations like Amazon lockers.
Utilize Technology: Install video doorbell cameras to monitor deliveries and catch any suspicious activity.
Hold at Location: Use FedEx's "Hold at Location" service to have packages delivered directly to a FedEx office or another secure site.
These tips can help prevent theft while law enforcement works on stopping these porch pirates.
Michigan Cities With the Highest Surge in Vehicle Theft
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
Watch Out For Michigan's 5 Most Dangerous Gangs
Gallery Credit: Big Joe Pesh
The A to Z of Michigan's U.P.
Gallery Credit: Wendy Reed