Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, around 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, most of all during the holidays, but there’s no reason you need to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home tech can keep your parcels protected in Burlington.

Layered security keeps Burlington porch pirates away

Holidays are stressful enough with scheduling conflicts, travel delays, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who test your nerves. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid opening move, but there’s more to preventing porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signage. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is often enough to frighten criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft takes place at all times of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about the security devices you have. Neighbors can look out for one another and report unusual behavior. 

Modern tech strengthens your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Burlington home. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Today’s home security can be managed remotely. Open your garage, tell the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You can now find outside and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by making smarter delivery choices. For instance:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for higher value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-value deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Burlington where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Burlington with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your door for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re not there. Contact (802) 945-2439 today to find out more and schedule your smart home installation in Burlington.