Regular users of popular second-hand marketplace Vinted are facing a growing crisis as parcel lockers across the country become targets for organised theft rings. Shoppers who rely on InPost's automated locker system for convenient collections and returns are reporting an alarming increase in stolen packages.
The Scale of the Problem
Social media platforms and community forums are flooded with frustrated Vinted customers sharing similar stories of arriving at InPost locations only to find their purchased items missing. The problem appears to be widespread, affecting urban and suburban areas alike.
One shopper recounted: "I received the notification that my parcel was ready for collection, but when I arrived at the locker, it was completely empty. This has happened three times now across different locations."
How the Theft Operation Works
Security experts suggest thieves are employing sophisticated methods to intercept packages. The most common techniques include:
- Code interception: Hackers accessing delivery notifications
- Locker tampering: Physical manipulation of locker mechanisms
- Social engineering: Pretending to be legitimate customers to staff
- Timed attacks: Striking during busy periods when monitoring is reduced
What Vinted and InPost Are Saying
Both companies have acknowledged the issue but maintain that security remains a priority. An InPost spokesperson stated: "We're continuously investing in security enhancements across our locker network. We encourage customers to report any suspicious activity immediately."
Vinted's customer service team has been processing refunds for affected users, but the process can take several days, leaving shoppers out of pocket temporarily.
Protecting Your Purchases: Essential Tips
Seasoned Vinted users have developed strategies to minimise risk:
- Collect promptly: Don't leave parcels in lockers longer than necessary
- Use alternative delivery: Consider home delivery or collection points with staff presence
- Verify notifications: Double-check collection codes and only use official apps
- Report immediately: Contact both Vinted and InPost the moment you suspect theft
- Document everything: Take photos of empty lockers as evidence
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges facing the growing second-hand fashion market, where convenience sometimes comes at the cost of security. As one regular user advised: "It's heartbreaking when a bargain you've been waiting for just disappears. We need better protection systems urgently."
