Porch Pirates Unmasked: How a Tech-Savvy Crime Ring Stole Thousands of iPhones

Summary of Theft Operation Targeting iPhone Deliveries

In a sophisticated operation targeting the theft of newly delivered iPhones, federal authorities have arrested 13 individuals involved in an international crime ring. The group used custom-built software to scrape FedEx tracking numbers and bribed AT&T employees for detailed customer order information, including delivery addresses.

Key Points:

• Software Development: Demetrio Reyes Martinez, known as "CookieNerd," developed the software to bypass FedEx's data request limits. He is currently outside the U.S.
• Bribes and Recruitment: An AT&T employee in New Jersey received $2,000-$2,500 per recruit for sharing customer shipment details.
• Theft Execution: Thieves were given tracking information and instructions to steal packages immediately after delivery.
• Scope of Impact: The crime ring operated across multiple U.S. states, targeting thousands of iPhones and other high-value items like Apple Watches and Samsung phones.
• Ongoing Investigation: Authorities believe more perpetrators are still at large.

Takeaway:

To protect valuable deliveries, it is recommended to require a signature upon delivery.