Every December, Santa checks his list twice…but Crime Stoppers Victoria checks it all year round. And while most people are busy wrapping presents and panic-buying last minute gifts, a special few are out there committing Christmas chaos.
So, gather around the fire (or the air-con), grab a candy cane, and let’s look at who’s firmly on the Crime Stoppers Naughty List this year.
1. The Parcel Pirate
They don’t sail ships, they sail by your porch, spotting an unattended delivery like it’s buried treasure. One swift grab and poof, your brand-new air fryer is gone.
Tip: Use secure delivery options and upload doorbell footage if you spot any suspicious activity.
2. The Tinsel Trickster
‘Tis the season for bargain traps; fake deals, dodgy links, and ads promising a PlayStation for the price of a coffee.
Tip: If the offer looks more magical than Santa’s sleigh, it’s probably a scam.
3. The Ho-Ho-Home Invader
Break-ins spike around the holidays, especially when people travel. Thieves love an empty house… but they also love a full one if they can see a pile of presents under the tree.
Tip: Hide gifts, lock up, and don’t overshare holiday plans online (the thieves don’t need an itinerary).
4. The Car-Key Copycat
With tech-enabled car theft rising, some grinches are using devices to clone keys faster than Rudolph can take off.
Tip: Store keys away from entrances and consider a Faraday pouch.
5. The Digital Scrooge
This one isn’t after presents, they’re after your personal info. From hacked accounts to fake PayID requests, they’ll swipe your passwords and personal information faster than you can say “Elf on the Shelf.”
Tip: Use passkeys, update your apps, and triple-check buyer details when selling online.
The Naughty List will always have a few names on it, but a little awareness helps stop the Christmas chaos from spreading.
Keep your space secure, stay smart online, and look out for anything that seems out of place. If you spot suspicious behaviour, report it to Crime Stoppers Victoria. You can share what you know anonymously at crimestoppersvic.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000.
Let’s keep the festive spirit high and the Naughty List under control.