Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online purchases 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, particularly during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. See how a layered approach and modern smart home technology can keep your packages secure in Riverside.

A layered defense keeps Riverside package bandits away

Holidays are stressful enough with packed calendars, travel delays, overtaxed budgets, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it? Ordering a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A sudden burst of light is often enough to frighten prowlers off. But keep in mind, porch theft happens at any time of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for each other and report unusual behavior. 

Current tech improves your defense

Home security continues to evolve. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Riverside home. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give instructions to delivery drivers or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery driver put parcels inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on a light display or sounds if a prowler ventures too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

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

• Demand a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for more expensive items. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Tell couriers where you want boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Carriers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Riverside where you can pick up deliveries.

Halt package theft in Riverside with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with couriers or even open your garage for package drop-offs, no matter your location. Call (951) 477-3741 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Riverside.