Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is eye-opening. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has had a package pilfered at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered approach and modern smart home technology can keep your deliveries safe in Orlando.

A layered defense keeps Orlando package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel delays, packed calendars, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a stolen package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Adding a video doorbell is a good idea, but there’s a lot more to stopping porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let prowlers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is often enough to send thieves away. But don’t forget, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you have. Neighbors can look out for each other and report suspicious behavior. 

Today’s tech improves your protection

Home security continues to evolve. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Orlando property. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be managed from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the delivery person put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outdoor cameras that turn on warning lights or audible alerts if someone comes too close. 

Make smarter delivery decisions

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

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for higher value items. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon have secure lockers in Orlando where you can pick up your orders.

Stop package theft in Orlando with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, no matter where you are. Call (407) 972-1223 today to learn more and arrange your smart home installation in Orlando.