Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are stunning. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, around 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a threat, especially during the busy holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Discover how a layered approach and the latest smart home security can keep your deliveries secure in York.

Layered protection keeps York package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel nightmares, scheduling headaches, overextended budgets, and in-laws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it? Ordering a video doorbell is a smart idea, but there’s more to stopping package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras along your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lighting. A flash of light is typically enough to send criminals away. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly happens in broad daylight.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should watch out for one another and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Today’s tech strengthens your protection

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

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be managed from wherever you are. Open your garage, let the delivery person put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You can now find doorbell and outdoor cameras that activate a bright light or audible alerts if a prowler comes too close. 

Make good delivery choices

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

• Request a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for more expensive goods. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you want packages dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service locker. Companies like Amazon have secure lockers in York where you can pick up your packages.

Halt package theft in York with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let pilfered packages dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your deliveries in the right hands. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that actively deter crime. Speak with couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, no matter where you are. Call (717) 973-7710 today to find out more and schedule your home security installation in York.