As Black Friday looms, holiday shopping is in full swing—and so are package thieves. This year, iPhone buyers face a unique threat from increasingly sophisticated porch pirates who may already know your delivery’s every move.

The Wall Street Journal reports reveal that thieves across the U.S. are exploiting a shocking vulnerability: access to AT&T tracking numbers. These tracking details, often for iPhones shipped via FedEx, allow criminals to time their thefts with near-perfect precision. Armed with this information, they’ve been caught tailing delivery trucks, grabbing packages just minutes after they hit doorsteps. Sometimes, thieves even don disguises—such as Amazon delivery vests—to blend in and reduce suspicion.

AT&T has acknowledged the issue but maintains there’s no evidence of a system hack. Instead, law enforcement suspects the tracking numbers might be leaked by insiders or sold on the dark web. While AT&T does require delivery signatures in certain high-risk areas, most markets lack such safeguards, leaving packages vulnerable. By contrast, carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile mandate signatures for smartphone deliveries as a standard precaution.

Victims have reported losses in numerous states, including Texas, Georgia, and Massachusetts, where doorbell cameras have captured bold thefts. In one case, a thief took off with five iPhones ordered for a family, snatching the box within seconds of delivery. Authorities say some theft rings are so organized they use rental cars and fly operatives across the country for targeted heists.

For consumers, there are ways to protect your precious holiday purchases:

1. Opt for in-store pickup whenever possible. It might not be as convenient but eliminates delivery risks.
2. Invest in a secure parcel locker or coordinate deliveries to a location where someone will be present.
3. Install doorbell cameras or other security systems to deter thieves and provide evidence if theft occurs.
4. Track your packages diligently and be ready to retrieve them immediately.

While AT&T has pledged to work with law enforcement and make adjustments to its processes, consumers are left with limited recourse if a theft occurs. If your package does get stolen, acting quickly to report the incident and request a replacement is crucial, though frustrating during the busy holiday season.

As the shopping season ramps up, it’s clear that thieves are getting smarter. A little extra vigilance and preparation can make all the difference in ensuring your new iPhone—and all your holiday treasures—stay out of their hands.