Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a threat, most of all during the holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. See how a layered plan and modern smart home tech can keep your parcels protected in Jefferson City.

Layered protection keeps Jefferson City package bandits away

Holidays are already a challenge with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Adding a doorbell camera is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to deterring porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signage. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is usually enough to send thieves running. But keep in mind, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and flag unusual behavior. 

Modern technology improves your security

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

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security can be managed from a distance. Unlock your front door, have a delivery person put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across outdoor and doorbell cameras that activate a light display or sounds if someone comes too close. 

Make good delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern devices will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For instance:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for higher value items. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want packages dropped off and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Jefferson City where you can retrieve your orders.

Prevent package theft in Jefferson City with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Call (573) 498-8565 today to learn more and arrange your home security installation in Jefferson City.