Chicago Takes Top Spot as Worst City for Porch Pirate Thefts
A new report from home security research firm SafeWise has found that Chicago ranks No. 1 in the nation for porch pirate thefts, with an estimated total value of stolen packages reaching $254 million and over 6.5 million incidents reported this year.
The study, which analyzed data from 7,500 people nationwide, as well as crime statistics from the FBI, reveals that urban centers like Chicago are hotspots for package theft due to their dense population and high delivery traffic. Despite the increased use of concierge services and delivery lockers, these areas continue to attract porch pirates.
According to the report, nearly one-third of those surveyed had a package stolen in the past year, with 75% reporting that they lost more than one package. The emotional impact on victims is significant, with many expressing feelings of violation and distress after their property has been taken.
While some cities have seen an increase in package theft, this year's SafeWise report marks the first time a decline has been observed, with an estimated 104 million packages stolen costing consumers $15 billion. Retailers are also footing the bill, with additional costs estimated at $22 billion for replacement, refunds, customer service, and shipping.
Experts stress that prevention is key, recommending strategies such as scheduling deliveries during home occupancy, directing packages to side or back doors, keeping porches well-lit, and using home security systems with cameras. By taking these steps, individuals can reduce the risk of package theft and help protect their property.
The study also highlights the importance of addressing package theft at a policy level, with several states having elevated the crime from a misdemeanor to a felony. As one criminologist noted, "Package theft is a crime of opportunity," emphasizing the need for proactive measures to deter these incidents.
A new report from home security research firm SafeWise has found that Chicago ranks No. 1 in the nation for porch pirate thefts, with an estimated total value of stolen packages reaching $254 million and over 6.5 million incidents reported this year.
The study, which analyzed data from 7,500 people nationwide, as well as crime statistics from the FBI, reveals that urban centers like Chicago are hotspots for package theft due to their dense population and high delivery traffic. Despite the increased use of concierge services and delivery lockers, these areas continue to attract porch pirates.
According to the report, nearly one-third of those surveyed had a package stolen in the past year, with 75% reporting that they lost more than one package. The emotional impact on victims is significant, with many expressing feelings of violation and distress after their property has been taken.
While some cities have seen an increase in package theft, this year's SafeWise report marks the first time a decline has been observed, with an estimated 104 million packages stolen costing consumers $15 billion. Retailers are also footing the bill, with additional costs estimated at $22 billion for replacement, refunds, customer service, and shipping.
Experts stress that prevention is key, recommending strategies such as scheduling deliveries during home occupancy, directing packages to side or back doors, keeping porches well-lit, and using home security systems with cameras. By taking these steps, individuals can reduce the risk of package theft and help protect their property.
The study also highlights the importance of addressing package theft at a policy level, with several states having elevated the crime from a misdemeanor to a felony. As one criminologist noted, "Package theft is a crime of opportunity," emphasizing the need for proactive measures to deter these incidents.
Porch Pirates on the Loose! 
I mean, I get it, cities like Chicago are just so densely packed with people and deliveries, but come on $254 million worth of stolen packages? That's crazy! 
It's not just about the money, though. I can imagine how frustrating it must be to have your package swiped right from under your nose. 
The emotional toll shouldn't be underestimated either. People are feeling like their property is being violated and that's no joke. 
It's all about creating an environment where porch pirates feel like they're taking a risk if they try to swipe your stuff. 
n i feel so bad 4 ppl who had their packages stolen, that's so violating 
& $15 billion in losses is crazy! 
what do u think shd b done 4 better preventin' package thefts? 
. and its not just about the money, its emotional distress too 
. what's crazy is that almost 1/3 of people surveyed had a package stolen in the past year 
. but its cool that there are experts like criminologists who are all about prevention 
. scheduling deliveries when u r home, keeping ur porch lit...these tips make sense 
i think retailers should be doing more to help prevent these thefts, like increasing security measures or something. and whats up with the states making package theft a felony now?? thats not gonna stop people if they wanna steal stuff 
I mean, I feel bad for all those people who had their packages stolen... like, $254 million?! 
That sounds like a solid plan to me. And can we please talk about how retailers and consumers are getting hit with these costs?! 
scheduling deliveries when ur home is occupied or using those delivery lockers sounds like a solid plan 
! I mean, $254 million and 6.5 million incidents? That's insane 
But seriously, what's the solution here? I mean, we all know prevention is key (scheduling deliveries during occupancy, porches well-lit, etc.), but it feels like these thieves are just too sneaky 
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i mean im no expert but shouldn't cities be like protecting their citizens property like?? and the fact that nearly one-third of people surveyed got a package stolen in the past year is wild 
! It's just so sad that people are taking advantage of others like this. And the stats are crazy, $254 million and over 6.5 million incidents?! That's just heartbreaking for all those families who are dealing with lost or stolen items.
. Let's work together to make our community safer! 
It's not like people are stealing for the thrill of it; they're doing it because they see an opportunity and take it. 
), and it's a major bummer.
I mean, come on! Chicago's number one spot as worst city for porch pirate thefts? That's crazy! $254 million worth of stolen packages and over 6.5 million incidents reported this year... that's just a lot of people getting taken advantage of. 