In our recent investigation into package thefts and porch piratesCNET found that many American adults are aware of package theft, and about 71 percent of them plan to take action to prevent it. This is excellent news; the problem is that they don’t know how.

This can be a costly mistake; The average estimated value of packages this holiday season is about $290 per American adult, but our study found that they don’t prepare well for the possibility of package theft.

Learn more: The 7 Best Ways to Keep Porch Pirates Away from Your Package

People Choose Wrong Methods to Deal With Porch Pirates

CNET’s survey found that the number of adults taking action or considering taking action in the event of package theft increased 3% from last year, and only 17% of respondents had not intention to do anything. The problem is that the majority planned to use package tracking technology to stop package theft, while about 28% were focused on not leaving their homes unattended.

It’s a good start, but these popular methods won’t do much to stop porch pirates and similar package thefts. Package tracking can show you where a package is, but can’t stop thieves from getting it if you’re not home or don’t get to the mailbox on time. And today’s thieves are use hacked tracking data And mail connections to fetch packets before you can do anything.

So tracking packages is a good thing, but it’s not a good way to stop thieves. For that, you need something a little more advanced.

So what really works against package theft?

I’m a big fan of use video doorbells to monitor package drops, but while it may deter theft, it’s not a complete solution. If, like 1 in 6 Americans, you have had a package stolen in the past year, you should consider a video doorbell along with a few other steps.

First of all, if you have a smart garage controller (Less than $100 with a renovation), then look into garage delivery options. They are usually free, completely safe and easy to set up on sites like Amazon. Your garage will automatically open and close for the delivery person only, ensuring your package stays safe.

Second, if garage deliveries are not an option for you, consider install a parcel delivery safe near your porch or front door. They are effective against theft and essentially last forever, thus nipping your package theft problem in the bud. They are also available in many sizes and styles to suit your needs.

Prevent package theft this holiday with the right tips

Finally, remember that package theft is a crime of opportunity. The quicker you respond to package deliveries, the less you have to worry. Methods that work immediately, like garage or box delivery, are much more efficient than asking a neighbor to watch your packages or trying to have your packages delivered to another address.

To find out more, see our guide to best cheap video doorbells, top Ring Doorbells, how to deter burglars and the The worst places to install a security camera.