While not everyone is familiar with the term ‘porch pirate”, millions of Australian online shoppers are falling victim to these opportunistic thieves each year.

Porch piracy – also known as package delivery theft – is on the rise as Australian households increasingly turn to online shopping and  deliveries for their purchases.

A survey of 1011 people by Finder found that one in five – the equivalent of 4.1 million Australians – have had a parcel stolen or lost in the past year.

Of those surveyed, seven per cent said their parcel was stolen from  their home after it had been delivered.

A further six per cent said their delivery was sent to the wrong address, while five per cent said the mail was “lost in transit”.

Finder said the average value of missing packages amounted to $145, or around $606 million in lost deliveries per year.

In the US, criminals stole an estimated US$12 billion ($19 billion) worth of deliveriess, according to data from Security.org, which reviews security products.

“The financial toll is significant, with losses running into the millions each year – not to mention the inconvenience for consumers,” Finder personal finance specialist Taylor Blackburn said.

“Opportunistic thieves are seizing the chance to snatch unattended packages.”

The problem is even more serious for Gen Z shoppers. with some 30 per cent or respondents aged between 13 and 28 reporting lost or stolen parcels in the past year.

How to deter porch pirates

1. Use package tracking

Most major delivery companies and Australia Post gives updates on when a given package will arrive.

In most cases, you can track a delivery’s progress via an appand see when it’s been placed on the truck for delivery.

The tracking will be updated when your package has been delivered.

To avoid porch pirates, shoppers can use their tracking information to be sure they quickly recover their package once it’s delivered, or ask someone else to collect it.

2. Install a camera

Security cameras and video doorbells are becoming an increasingly popular way of protecting homes.

Most hardware or appliance stores sell these devices, that can often offer realtime streaming to a phone, allowing you to see when a package is delivered.

Many cameras allow for two-way audio, meaning you can talk to whoever is on your porch.

The visible presence of a security camera can also act as a deterrence to would-be thieves.

3. Get packages delivered to pickup locations

It may not be as convenient, but arranging for a pickup location instead of a home address can keep packages more secure.

Many vendors offer the option of the option to choose a pickup location, allowing you to ensure your delivery is safe until you’re ready to pick it up.

All is not lost

As Blackburn points out, if your goods are stolen, all is not lost.

“If you paid with a credit card, you may be entitled to a refund if your card has purchase protection,” she explained.

“Most retail items you buy for yourself are covered, such as clothing, jewellery, laptops or art.”