Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still an issue, particularly during the holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! See how a layered strategy and modern smart home technology can keep your packages protected in Fresno.

Layered security keeps Fresno package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with scheduling headaches, travel chaos, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a stolen package to send you over the top. So, how do you prevent it taking place? Installing a video doorbell is a solid first step, but there’s a lot more to stopping package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is usually enough to scare criminals off. But keep in mind, porch theft occurs at all times of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have in place. Neighbors can look out for one another and flag unusual behavior. 

Today’s tech improves your protection

Home security is always evolving. You can leverage these advancements to stop porch theft at your Fresno home. Here are a few worth installing:

• Video doorbells with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or find out why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and custom automation. Modern home security systems can be managed remotely. Open your garage, let the courier put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are outdoor and doorbell cameras that activate a light display or sounds if a lurker ventures 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. To illustrate:

• Request a signature. This is a great choice, especially for high-value items. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Give instructions. Let drivers know where you would like packages left and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service storage locker. Companies like Amazon have secure lockers in Fresno where you can pick up your packages.

Prevent package theft in Fresno with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages spoil your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your parcels safe. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Talk to couriers or even unlock your front door for deliveries, even when you’re not there. Place a call to (559) 354-6624 today to learn more and arrange your home security installation in Fresno.