US porch pirate criminal network stole thousands of iPhones

Thanks to modern technology, we can buy almost everything and anything we need on the internet. Once we place our order, it is delivered right to our doorstep. The problem with this is that it creates porch pirates—people that steal unattended packages in front of people’s houses. That said, the US Department of Justice has recently taken down a criminal ring of porch pirates that stole expensive electronics like the iPhone.

The Porch Pirate criminal network

According to the report, the criminal network, which included thirteen members, orchestrated the operation using automated scripts to scrape tracking data from FedEx systems. Its members also bribed AT&T employees to obtain confidential customer information, including customer names, addresses, and tracking numbers. By leveraging this information, the porch pirates intercepted shipments, snatching Apple iPhone packages from porches minutes after delivery.

Authorities claim the thieves established hubs in New York to manage the stolen devices. For instance, some members of the operation received the stolen phones in the Bronx, while other members set up a Brooklyn site for processing bulk shipments of the stolen electronics from across the country. The operation spanned multiple states, with criminals transporting and selling the stolen devices overseas.

Brazen behaviors

The thieves were even brazen enough to complain to FedEx about “missing” shipments. In one instance, two members of the crime ring attempted to ship a package at a FedEx store. They falsely claimed it contained baby clothes. However, when FedEx security inspected the parcel, they uncovered stolen iPhones and confiscated them. Later, when the package arrived empty, one of the criminals contacted FedEx’s customer service and complained that someone had taken his stolen iPhones.

Both FedEx and AT&T worked with law enforcement to track down the individuals behind these thefts. In a statement, FedEx emphasized its proactive efforts to combat the growing problem of porch piracy. AT&T also assured the public that it continues to refine its employee training and security measures to prevent internal leaks.

Authorities have now charged all individuals involved in the scheme, with some facing up to 20 years in prison.

So, the next time you plan to buy something expensive online, make sure that you or someone is at home to receive it. You can also install security cameras to receive notifications when someone approaches your doorstep.

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