Total value of parcels stolen estimated at £376m, with Black Friday and run-up to Christmas the worst periods

Police forces across the UK are warning shoppers about a rise in “porch piracy”, an emerging criminal trend involving doorstep parcel thefts which is costing businesses and consumers millions of pounds.

In one east London borough, police have put up posters in the lobbies of flats, while in other areas forces are using social media to provide tips on how to make life more difficult for thieves.