RCMP Warn of Holiday Parcel Thefts Amid Canada Post Strike

With the holiday season well underway, Alberta RCMP are reminding residents to guard against parcel theft. Even amid the ongoing Canada Post strike, so-called porch pirates are out looking for easy targets. The risk of thefts is closely linked to the rise in online shopping.

Between October 2023 and September 2024, Alberta RCMP received nearly 700 reports of stolen parcels, with December and January historically being the peak months for mail theft. In December 2023 alone, 61 cases were reported, climbing to 90 in January 2024.

Police recommend several measures to protect holiday deliveries. Opting for “signature required” delivery ensures packages aren’t left unattended, while shipment tracking can help residents quickly pick up parcels left at the door.

Scheduling deliveries for times when someone is home or arranging for packages to be sent to secure pick-up locations can also reduce the risk of theft.

For additional security, RCMP suggest installing doorbell cameras and motion sensor lights, which can scare off opportunistic thieves. They also urge neighbours to look out for one another by reporting suspicious activity to police.

For those travelling during the holidays, the RCMP suggests securing both homes and mail. Uncollected parcels can signal an empty home, making it a target for criminals. Asking a trusted neighbour to collect mail, shovel snow, and check on the property can help maintain the appearance of occupancy.

The RCMP remind residents never to send cash or payment forms through the mail and to ensure all doors and windows are locked before leaving for the holidays.