Australians warned to be aware of parcel pirates as Christmas gift deliveries are left outside the front door

Christmas is around the corner and the infamous porch pirate is on the prowl.

With many of us getting deliveries left outside our front door as the festive season builds, porch pirates who steal unattended deliveries are in their element.

Australia Post general manager group security Kevin Zuccato urged online shoppers and those expecting gifts to leave instructions for their parcels to be left in a safe place, out of sight potential poachers.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: OUTSMART PARCEL THIEVES

“We know customers are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their parcels, especially ahead of Christmas, so please remain vigilant,” he said.

“If a parcel is stolen after it has been delivered it becomes a matter for police.

“However, we’re encouraging customers to consider our secure delivery options to reduce the risk of this happening.

“Anyone who suspects their mail has been stolen should contact their local police or Crime Stoppers.”

CCTV footage of previous incidents shows the thieves indiscriminately taking parcels left behind by couriers during the day.

Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said that a trend had emerged in past years of thieves ramping up the brazen act around the holiday season.

“We see an increase in parcel theft around Christmas, with opportunistic thieves looking for any chance to strike quickly and quietly,” she said.

“Simple steps like choosing secure delivery options and reporting any suspicious behaviour can make a real difference.

“If you have footage of suspicious activity or information about a theft, share it with Crime Stoppers to help prevent further incidents.”

Customers who capture suspicious activity can upload CCTV or doorbell footage directly to the Crime Stoppers website here or call 1800 333 000.

PARCEL THEFT PREVENTION TIPS

• Use a free 24/7 Parcel Locker, which are a convenient and secure alternative to home delivery, allowing customers to collect a parcel at a time that suits them.
• Download the AusPost app and receive secure delivery and parcel tracking updates, with notifications when a parcel arrives.
• Go for Post Office collection and pick up a parcel from the nearest Post Office.
• Request to have a parcel left in a safe place, which can be done through the AusPost app or a MyPost account.