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, package thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still an issue, especially during the holidays, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. See how a layered plan and current smart home tech can keep your deliveries protected in Wilmington.

Layered security keeps Wilmington package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling headaches, travel nightmares, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Ordering a doorbell camera is a solid opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch pirates. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being recorded.
• Security signage. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is typically enough to send thieves running. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at all times of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about what devices you own. Neighbors can look out for one another and take note of unusual behavior. 

Modern tech boosts your security

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to stop porch theft at your Wilmington property. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Today’s home security systems can be managed remotely. Unlock your front door, tell the courier put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are doorbell and outdoor cameras that trigger a bright light or sounds if someone gets too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

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

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for more expensive goods. Your packages will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Tell drivers where you would like packages placed and keep them out of view.
• Redirect packages. Deliver higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Wilmington where you can grab your orders.

Stop package theft in Wilmington with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for deliveries, even when you’re not there. Contact (910) 634-2695 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Wilmington.