Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are eye-opening. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, especially during the busy holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Discover how a layered strategy and the latest smart home tech can keep your parcels secure in Memphis.

Layered security keeps Memphis package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with in-laws who overstay their welcome, overextended budgets, packed calendars, and travel delays. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it taking place? Adding a doorbell camera is a smart first step, but there’s more to the puzzle of preventing porch theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is usually enough to send prowlers away. Just remember, porch theft takes place at any time of day.
• Knowing your neighbors. It’s not just about what devices you have. Neighbors can keep an eye out for one another and take note of questionable behavior. 

Current tech improves your security

Home security continues to evolve. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Memphis property. Consider these options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door or open your garage, tell the courier put packages inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You’ll come across outside and doorbell cameras that trigger a light display or audible alerts if someone gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also stay a step ahead by making smarter delivery decisions. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for higher value items. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Tell drivers where you would like parcels left and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Ship more expensive deliveries to another location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Memphis where you can retrieve your packages.

Stop package theft in Memphis with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to ruin your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that actively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your door for package drop-offs, no matter your location. Place a call to (901) 763-6618 today to find out more and schedule your smart home installation in Memphis.