Londoners lose £14,732 to stolen online purchases

A London couple has lost £14,732 after a series of online purchases were stolen from their building's lobby. The residents, who have not been named, were unable to claim a refund for the missing items. Private investigation company Adley Barton was contacted by the couple after more than seven packages disappeared over two months. The victims believe some of their stolen belongings are now being advertised for sale online.

Warning over delivery options

Joseph Barton, a private investigator with Adley Barton, has issued a warning to online shoppers. He described 'porch pirates' as thieves who steal delivered mail, a problem he says is increasing in the UK, particularly in London. Mr Barton specifically advised against selecting the 'leave an item in a safe space or with a neighbour' delivery option. He explained that once a customer authorises a parcel to be left in a safe place, the retailer is no longer responsible if the item is subsequently stolen.

Under UK consumer law, retailers are responsible for goods until they are received by the customer. However, if a customer agrees to have a parcel left in a safe location or with a neighbour, this agreement shifts responsibility. If the courier leaves a parcel in a safe space without prior permission, the retailer remains liable. Mr Barton noted that even in trusted neighbourhoods or seemingly secure locations, the opportunity for theft can arise.

Mr Barton acknowledged that many people work standard hours and find waiting for deliveries inconvenient. He urged customers to consider the potential consequences if a parcel is not there upon their return. He recounted a case where a client did not receive an expensive gaming PC. The seller stated they were not responsible as the item had been delivered to a designated safe space. In that instance, the investigators were able to track down and recover the item, which had been delivered to an incorrect housing estate.

Police focus on parcel theft

The Metropolitan Police has identified parcel theft as a neighbourhood policing priority in certain London areas. Police in Southfields have reported instances of parcels being taken from communal entrances. Properties with communal entry systems have been identified as frequent targets. Residents in flats have been advised by police not to allow unknown individuals into communal areas.

Mr Barton recommended alternative delivery methods such as using secure lockers or arranging for a family member to be present to receive deliveries. He also advised checking all online accounts to ensure the 'leave at a safe space' option is not set as a default and to disable it.