The U.S. Department of Justice recently cracked down on an international crime ring that targeted expensive electronics like the iPhone, with the workings of the complex crime system detailed in a report from The Wall Street Journal.
A nationwide Porch Pirate network, responsible for thousands of iPhone Theft incidents, has been taken down. The operation involved thirteen individuals who exploited both technological vulnerabilities and insider corruption.
The criminals used automated scripts to extract delivery data from FedEx, identifying targets for iPhone Theft. They also bribed AT&T employees for confidential customer information, including names, addresses, and tracking numbers. This allowed them to pinpoint when and where valuable iPhone shipments would arrive.
“Runners” then executed the Porch Pirate thefts, snatching packages from doorsteps within minutes of delivery. Stolen iPhones were funneled through hubs in the Bronx and Brooklyn, before being shipped and sold overseas.
A failed attempt to ship stolen iPhones through FedEx, disguised as baby clothes, triggered further investigation. Both FedEx and AT&T cooperated with law enforcement, emphasizing their commitment to combating Porch Pirate activity and iPhone Theft.
All thirteen individuals face charges, with potential prison sentences of up to 20 years.
Acting United States Attorney Vikas Khanna says:
“These defendants are alleged to have worked together as part of an international ring to steal thousands of expensive electronic devices, which caused millions of dollars of losses to the victims. They are alleged to have done so by harnessing technology through the use of computer scripts which gave them access to shipping information, including individuals’ names and their home addresses. My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue these types of criminals no matter where in the world they are and seek justice for their victims.”