Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home tech can keep your deliveries secure in Fayetteville.

A layered defense keeps Fayetteville package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, overextended budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel delays. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it? Adding a video doorbell is a solid idea, but there’s more to preventing package theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let prowlers know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A sudden burst of light is often enough to scare thieves off. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly occurs during daylight hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors should watch out for one another and flag questionable behavior. 

Modern tech boosts your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Fayetteville home. Here are some worth installing:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door, tell the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then close or lock the entrance once they’re done. 
• Video cameras with active deterrence. You can now find exterior and doorbell cameras that activate warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler comes too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern technology will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For instance:

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for higher value items. Your packages will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you want boxes left and keep them out of view.
• Redirect packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to an alternate location, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Fayetteville where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Fayetteville with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages ruin your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll appreciate having remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, even when you’re away. Place a call to (479) 364-5616 today to find out more and schedule your home security installation in Fayetteville.