Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. All told, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, particularly during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be targeted. Discover how a layered approach and the latest smart home tech can keep your parcels secure in Jamestown.

Layered security keeps Jamestown package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who stay too long, overextended budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel chaos. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Ordering a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s a lot more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is usually enough to send prowlers away. Just remember, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and take note of questionable behavior. 

Current technology strengthens your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to stop porch theft at your Jamestown property. Here are a few to consider:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door, have a courier put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outside cameras that turn on a light display or sounds if a lurker comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery choices. For instance:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for higher value items. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell drivers where you want boxes placed and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Jamestown where you can retrieve your orders.

Prevent package theft in Jamestown with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even open your garage for deliveries, even when you’re away. Contact (601) 494-3394 today to find out more and schedule your smart home installation in Jamestown.