Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, most of all during the holidays, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered approach and modern smart home tech can keep your packages secure in Allentown.

Layered protection keeps Allentown porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, budgets stretched to the limit, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Ordering a doorbell camera is a solid opening move, but there’s more to stopping package theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is often enough to scare prowlers off. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should look out for each other and report unusual behavior. 

Today’s tech boosts your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Allentown property. Consider these options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be managed from a distance. Open your garage, let the courier put packages inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. There are exterior and doorbell cameras that trigger a bright light or audible alerts if someone gets too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by picking optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive items. Your orders will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Allentown where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Allentown with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, even when you’re away. Contact (601) 514-6514 today to find out more and book your home security installation in Allentown.