You’d Better Watch Out! Holiday Package Scams are Here

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — and the busiest time for shipping services. In the U.S., delivery companies are expected to handle a whopping 2.3 billion packages for the 2025 season. 

Now is the time to stay alert, because as packages pile up on doorsteps and mailboxes fill up with holiday cards, scammers and thieves are scheming to get their hands on your personal information and property. 

Don’t let anyone steal your holiday joy! Check out these tips to protect yourself and your packages during the busy holiday shipping season: 

1. Watch Out for Fake Shipping Texts and Emails

Scammers will send convincing emails and text messages that appear to be from well-known shipping companies. The message might say there’s something wrong with your delivery and include a link to “fix” it. Don’t click! These are often phishing attempts designed to steal your personal or financial information.

Expecting a delivery? Visit the shipping carrier’s official website to check the status of your package.

2. Protect Against Porch Pirates 

“Porch pirates” are criminals who steal packages from victims’ doorsteps, sometimes in broad daylight. According to Security.org, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at some point. With gift deliveries galore, the holiday season is prime time for package thieves.

How can you protect yourself? 

• When your package ships, sign up for real-time tracking and delivery alerts directly through the shipping carrier. 
• If you can’t be home for delivery, consider shipping to a trusted location, like your workplace. 
• Request packages to be sent to a shipping carrier’s drop-off location or a secure locker.
• When ordering an important or high-value item, request a signature requirement at the time of delivery. 
• Invest in home security technology such as cameras and motion sensor lights to help deter theft.

Missing a package? Notify the retailer you purchased from right away. If your item never arrives, you may be able to dispute the charge with your credit card company for a refund. It’s another smart reason to use a credit card for online purchases!

3. Secure Your Mail

In addition to package theft, mail theft tends to peak around the holidays. Cards containing cash, checks or gift cards may be stolen right from mailboxes, including post office collection boxes.

What you can do: 

• Instead of mailing money, send a virtual gift card or use a secure peer-to-peer payment service. 
• Check your mailbox each day, and don’t let mail pile up unattended. 
• Going out of town? Place a hold on your mail through the U.S. Postal Service to keep it safe until you return.

Keep the Holidays Merry, Bright and Fraud-Free

A little extra vigilance goes a long way in protecting your holiday cheer! 

Remember, Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®) is always here to help you protect yourself from fraud. Visit our Fraud Prevention page for more tips, or stop by a Member Center for personalized support and guidance. We’re With You!