Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, most of all during the holidays, but that doesn’t mean you have to be victimized. Discover how a layered approach and modern smart home tech can keep your deliveries protected in Brooklyn.

Layered security keeps Brooklyn package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with in-laws who stay too long, overextended budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel delays. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it from happening? Ordering a video doorbell is a solid first step, but there’s a lot more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let prowlers know they’re being recorded.
• Home security signs. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is typically enough to send criminals running. Just remember, porch theft occurs 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 take note of suspicious behavior. 

Modern technology strengthens your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can use these advancements to stop porch theft at your Brooklyn property. Consider these options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and automation. Today’s home security systems can be controlled from a distance. Open your garage, have a delivery driver put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outside cameras that turn on a bright light or sounds if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smarter delivery choices

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

• Request a signature. This is a wise choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Leave delivery instructions. Let drivers know where you want packages left and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Send more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Brooklyn where you can retrieve deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Brooklyn with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages safe. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even open your garage for deliveries, even when you’re away. Call (929) 552-2194 today to learn more and book your smart home installation in Brooklyn.