Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are stunning. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of 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 definitely still an issue, most of all during the holidays, but you don't have to be a victim! Explore how a layered strategy and the latest smart home security can keep your parcels secure in Lancaster.

Layered security keeps Lancaster package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with packed calendars, travel chaos, overtaxed budgets, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it? Adding a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Video cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signage. It’s old-school but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is often enough to send thieves away. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and flag suspicious behavior. 

Current tech boosts your defense

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Lancaster home. Here are a few to consider:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security can be controlled from a distance. Open your garage, have a delivery driver put packages inside, and then secure the entrance when they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You’ll come across outside and doorbell cameras that turn on a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for high-value items. Your orders will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell drivers where you would like boxes placed and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Send higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon have secure lockers in Lancaster where you can grab your packages.

Halt package theft in Lancaster with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your parcels protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, no matter where you are. Contact (717) 922-5237 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Lancaster.