Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered approach and the latest smart home tech can keep your parcels protected in Tempe.

Layered protection keeps Tempe porch pirates away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling conflicts, travel delays, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it? Ordering a doorbell camera is a smart idea, but there’s more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is typically enough to send prowlers running. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you own. Neighbors should watch out for each other and flag questionable behavior. 

Current technology boosts your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Tempe home. Here are some worth installing:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Open your garage, have a delivery person put packages inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. There are doorbell and outdoor cameras that trigger warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery decisions. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for high-value items. Your orders will never be left unattended. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Send more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Tempe where you can pick up your packages.

Stop package theft in Tempe with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to dampen your holiday cheer. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that proactively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, even when you’re not home. Place a call to (480) 360-6677 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Tempe.