Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! Discover how a layered plan and current smart home technology can keep your parcels safe in Rochester.

Layered protection keeps Rochester package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel chaos, scheduling conflicts, overextended budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you need is a pilfered package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid first step, but there’s a lot more to stopping porch pirates. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s border. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is typically enough to send prowlers away. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during the day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about what devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for one another and take note of unusual behavior. 

Today’s technology strengthens your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Rochester home. Here are several worth considering:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, have a delivery driver put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or sounds if someone comes too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered approach and modern devices will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For example:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for higher value items. Your packages will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Send higher-value deliveries to another location, like your place of work or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Rochester where you can pick up your orders.

Stop package theft in Rochester with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your parcels safe. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, no matter your location. Place a call to (507) 710-3863 today to find out more and book your home security installation in Rochester.