Cybercriminals Are Stealing Your Holiday Packages (And How to Stop It)
- Zita Lam
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
Imagine your holiday party…without your gifts 😐
The holidays are here — Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the mad rush for gifts. But while you’re hunting for deals and placing online orders, cybercriminals and thieves are hunting too.
This year, some hackers are going beyond stealing credit card info. They’re targeting your actual packages — rerouting orders, tricking delivery staff, and even using crime rings to pick up high-value items.
If you’ve ordered gifts, electronics, or popular items online, it’s time to protect your shipments. Here’s how to spot risks and keep your packages safe.
How Package Theft Happens
Phishing & Scams
Fake emails or text messages from “shipping companies” ask for account info or confirm delivery changes.
Compromised Accounts
Hackers take over delivery or retailer accounts to change delivery addresses.
Rerouted Packages
Once they have access, thieves can redirect your orders to a different location.
Physical Pickup by Crime Rings
Local thieves collect the rerouted packages using fake IDs or collusion with delivery workers.
Red Flags That Your Package May Be at Risk
Emails or texts asking you to confirm shipping details urgently.
Account login alerts from your retailer or shipping company that you didn’t trigger.
Delivery notifications with odd links or attachments.
Packages marked delivered but never arrived.
How to Protect Your Packages
Technical Steps:
Use strong, unique passwords for retailer and shipping accounts.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
Avoid clicking on links in emails or texts from unknown sources.
Practical Delivery Tips:
Opt for delivery lockers or pickup locations instead of leaving packages at your door.
Request signature confirmation for high-value shipments.
Track your orders with the retailer’s official app or website, not email links.
Consider a smart camera or doorbell to monitor deliveries.
Extra Safety:
If something feels off — like an email asking for urgent updates — contact the retailer or carrier directly.
Keep receipts and order confirmations handy in case you need to report a theft.
Final Thought
Cybercriminals are turning the holiday rush into an opportunity. Protect your gifts and personal orders by staying vigilant online and securing your deliveries.
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Stepfar Technology Group
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