Survey: 23 Million Americans Have Had Packages Stolen From Doorstep

RAMSEY, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- A new report from the insurance industry finds thieves are taking advantage of the boom in online shopping.

According to insuranceQuotes.com, 23 million Americans have had packages stolen from their doorsteps.

Driving around Bergen County, 1010 WINS' Glenn Schuck spotted packages piled up in front of several homes.

Ramsey police Chief Bryan Gurney is offering some simple tips to avoid being ripped off.

"Almost every major delivery service has tracking numbers. It's always a good idea to track your packages," Gurney said. "You can request to have a signature for the package so they won't be delivered and dropped at the house unless you sign for it. Consider having a specific drop time."

Gurney also suggests asking a neighbor to pick up your packages or sign for deliveries, request items be held at a nearby UPS location or ask to have the packages delivered behind the house.

Gurney said all thefts should also be reported to police so they can take quick action.

"You're talking about cellphones, gaming systems -- they're a significant amount of money. We absolutely want it reported," Gurney said. "Last year, we had a theft and were able to get a description of the vehicle, and the vehicle was subsequently stopped in Paramus, where we made an arrest."