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Guarding Your Mailbox: How to Prevent Holiday Season Porch Pirates and Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft
With the holidays approaching, learn why securing your mailbox is your first line of defense against rising package theft and identity fraud
Spencer Coursen
September 30, 2025
“A single stolen envelope can unravel your entire identity.” — Spencer Coursen
What Happened and Why This Matters
As we roll into the holiday season—Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas just around the corner—there's often a spike in package deliveries. Unsurprisingly, that also means a spike in package theft. In fact, porch piracy and mail-related identity theft tend to rise this time of year.
Why does this matter? Because an unsecured mailbox or easily accessible packages can lead to more than just stolen gifts. It can open the door to identity theft, fraud, and a host of other hassles. Protecting your personal information starts right at your front door—or mailbox.
Five Protective Strategies You Can Employ Today:
1. Invest in a Lockable Mailbox
A sturdy, lockable mailbox can deter casual thieves and keep your sensitive mail out of easy reach
2. Use Package Lockboxes
For frequent deliveries, consider a secure parcel drop box or a smart locker where couriers can safely leave packages.
3. Schedule Deliveries or Use Pickup Points:
If possible, schedule deliveries for when you're home or use a designated secure pickup location instead of leaving items exposed on the porch.
4. Turn On Camera Notifications
Enable motion-activated notifications on your security cameras. This way, you’re alerted the moment someone approaches your doorstep, allowing you to respond quickly and potentially deter theft before it happens.
5. Shred Sensitive Documents
If you're receiving bank statements or any personal documents by mail, shred them before disposal to prevent dumpster divers from retrieving your info.
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