Alice Beer explains consumer rights if your parcel is stolen

UK households are being warned about a phenomenon set to cause widespread problems this Christmas. That issue is "porch pirates" - and many people will be unfamiliar with both the phrase and what it means.

A record £666.5 million worth of parcels has been stolen across the UK in the past year as “porch pirates” exploit the Christmas delivery rush.

Figures obtained by delivery technology firm Quadient show thefts have soared by 77% in a year - nearly £290m.

December is now the peak month for parcel crime as lobbies, flat entrances and doorsteps fill with unattended items during the festive rush.

Gary Winter, Quadient’s vice-president of global strategic initiatives, says theft is becoming a mainstream criminal opportun

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