Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, especially during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be targeted. Explore how a layered plan and modern smart home tech can keep your packages secure in Springfield.

Layered security keeps Springfield porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, budgets stretched to the limit, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to push you over the edge. So, how can you stop it taking place? Ordering a doorbell camera is a smart opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is usually enough to send thieves away. Just remember, porch theft commonly happens during daylight hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and flag unusual behavior. 

Current tech strengthens your security

Home security is always evolving. You can use these advancements to stop porch theft at your Springfield property. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed from wherever you are. Unlock your front door, have a delivery person put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

A layered approach and modern devices will help curtail package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery decisions. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for more expensive items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Ship more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Springfield where you can pick up your orders.

Prevent package theft in Springfield with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, no matter where you are. Call (413) 277-7517 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Springfield.