Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is stunning. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, especially during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you have to be victimized. Explore how a layered approach and the latest smart home tech can keep your parcels secure in Huntington.

A layered defense keeps Huntington package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel nightmares, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it from happening? Installing a video doorbell is a solid idea, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is typically enough to send criminals running. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors can look out for each other and report unusual behavior. 

Today’s tech boosts your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Huntington home. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door, let the delivery person put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are exterior and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery decisions. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, particularly for higher value items. Your packages will never be left unattended. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes left and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon provide secure lockers in Huntington where you can retrieve your orders.

Stop package theft in Huntington with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, regardless of your location. Call (304) 902-8188 today to learn more and schedule your home security installation in Huntington.