Amazon Prime Day Deals Begin as Experts Warn of Package Theft Risk

Amazon’s annual Prime Day event has officially kicked off, bringing major discounts—and competition from other retailers—just in time for summer. But as online shopping spikes, so do concerns about package theft.

In 2023, Prime Day shoppers purchased more than 375 million items worldwide, according to Amazon spokesperson Richard Rocha. Big box stores have also joined the savings frenzy by slashing prices this week.

But with packages piling up on porches, security experts are urging caution. “It’s a crime of opportunity,” said Corey Colleton with Security.org. Their research shows more than 58 million packages were stolen across the U.S. in 2024 alone.

Amazon says most deliveries arrive without issues, but there are steps customers can take to protect their purchases:

• Track your package in real time

• Use delivery photo confirmation

• Leave delivery instructions (e.g., “behind the house”)

• Use Amazon Hub lockers at no extra cost

• Schedule delivery for when you're home

If a package goes missing, Amazon recommends contacting customer service immediately. “We want to make sure customers get their items in the most convenient way possible,” Rocha said. Also, report the theft to local law enforcement—it’s a crime on private property.

Security cameras can help provide evidence, but experts caution against confronting thieves directly.

With deals heating up, it’s also a good time to cool down your risk by staying alert.

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