Recently, my colleague and I realised we had something in common: we’d both experienced way more parcel theft than usual.

Both of our community WhatsApp groups were flooded with messages from people saying their packages, including expensive presents, had been taken from their doorways.

So I thought I’d ask Kara Gammell, finance expert at MoneySuperMarket, if this is a real trend or just a coincidence.

Surprise, surprise: “Yes, parcel theft does tend to spike during the festive season. With Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas shopping driving a surge in online orders, there are simply more parcels left unattended – and unfortunately, thieves know this,” she told HuffPost UK.

“Local police often see a rise in so-called ‘porch piracy’ in November and December, so it’s worth taking extra precautions.”

How can you spot and prevent parcel theft?

Gammell said that there are a few signs to look out for, like “unfamiliar cars slowly passing by on delivery routes” or “discarded packaging in nearby bins or alleyways”.........

© HuffPost