But we live in 2020, and nobody should have to put up with porch pirates and other miscreants. Smart home surveillance systems are one of the easiest ways to fight back. Tap or click here to see how many of these products were on display at CES this year. If you’re tired of packages getting stolen before you can pick them up, there are a few methods you can use to secure them. Here are the easiest ways to stop porch pirates in their tracks.
1. Install Wi-Fi security cams on your front porch and set up break-in notifications
Good news: You don’t have to break the bank for a reliable security system. Plus, high-quality cameras come with apps you can set into your phone. This way, you’ll get a text or email alert whenever the camera detects motion. If a person walks up to your front door and peers through the window, you’ll be notified. Whenever glass breaks in your house, you’ll be notified. With a smartphone or a computer, these cameras allow you to view live feeds over the internet, essential for home security, surveillance or keeping an eye on children or pets. If you’re looking for a robust home security system, our sponsor SimpliSafe is an excellent choice. SimpliSafe lets you access your home camera right on your mobile device anytime, anywhere. With SimpliSafe, you get a push or text alert whenever your system detects activity — whether it’s outside your door or inside your house. With your SimpliSafe camera setup, you’ll know exactly when deliveries arrive, what time family members return home and even what the dog is up to. It’s a great way to ensure that your packages (and home) are safe as they can be. Protect your home with the security system that protects Kim’s family, SimpliSafe. Visit SimpliSafeKim.com to get started with a free HD security camera.
2. Get a video doorbell and catch thieves in the act
Video doorbells are an easy way to keep your home more secure. Once installed, you can peep outside through a connected smartphone app and get alerts when motion is detected in front of your door. You can even access your camera remotely using cellular data on your phone. But, make sure you don’t get tricked by low prices. There are many low-quality cameras out there, so if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. A good doorbell camera is worth the investment.
3. Get delivery photos so you know where your package is — or specify where you want the boxes placed
Already put in your order? No problem: You can add instructions to an order you already placed. Just tap on My Orders, and you can edit the order to your heart’s content. If you get emails when your packages are delivered, the photo will be included. To see delivery photos from your desktop, hover your mouse over Account & Lists and click Orders. If you click on Track Package next to an order, you’ll see if an image was taken. On the mobile app, tap the three-line icon in the menu at the bottom of your screen, followed by Your Orders. Tap an order to track it. Checking delivery photos can help you put the pieces together and figure out what happened to your packages. Combined with a video doorbell, it’s a surefire way to catch thieves in the act. Just keep in mind that not all orders include a photo. They’re taken at the discretion of the delivery person. To use in-garage delivery, you’ll need two things: A garage-door opener compatible with the myQ app and a Prime membership. This smart garage door opener hub from Chamberlain works with any garage door opener made after 1993 that has standard safety sensors. Now that you’ve got the equipment you need, here’s how to set it up:
5. Pick a secure shipping location
Once your package has been delivered, you’ll receive an e-mail notification with details about your order. You’ll have between three and 15 days to pick up your order, depending on the location.
