Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, one in four Americans has had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, particularly during the holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered strategy and the latest smart home security can keep your deliveries protected in Erie.

A layered defense keeps Erie package thieves away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel delays, scheduling conflicts, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, how can you stop it from happening? Ordering a doorbell camera is a solid opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A burst of light is typically enough to send criminals running. But keep in mind, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about the security tech you own. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and report unusual behavior. 

Today’s tech strengthens your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can leverage these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Erie property. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give delivery drivers instructions 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 packages inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are outdoor and doorbell cameras that trigger warning lights or sounds if a lurker gets too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

A layered defense and modern technology will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a great choice, particularly for more expensive items. Deliveries will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Change the delivery address. Ship more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your workplace or a self-service storage locker. Carriers like Amazon have secure lockers in Erie where you can retrieve your orders.

Stop package theft in Erie with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow filched packages to dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, no matter your location. Call (814) 992-4902 today to find out more and schedule your home security installation in Erie.