Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, especially during the holidays, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered approach and current smart home security can keep your deliveries safe in Boston.

A layered defense keeps Boston package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Installing a doorbell camera is a good idea, but there’s a lot more to stopping porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A sudden burst of light is often enough to frighten prowlers off. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly takes place in broad daylight.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for each other and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Modern tech strengthens your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Boston home. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Modern home security can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door, let the delivery person put deliveries inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

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

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for higher value items. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Ship higher-value deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon have secure lockers in Boston where you can pick up deliveries.

Halt package theft in Boston with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Call (617) 826-8647 today to learn more and schedule your home security installation in Boston.