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 worth of online orders in 2025. In all, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, most of all during the holiday season, but you don't need to be a victim! Explore how a layered approach and current smart home technology can keep your deliveries protected in Detroit.

Layered protection keeps Detroit package bandits away

Holidays are already stressful enough with travel chaos, scheduling conflicts, overextended budgets, and in-laws who overstay their welcome. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to push you over the top. So, how can you stop it taking place? Adding a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s more to the puzzle of stopping porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s border. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Security signage. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is usually enough to send prowlers running. But don’t forget, porch theft commonly occurs during the day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security tech you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for one another and report suspicious behavior. 

Modern tech strengthens your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Detroit property. Consider these options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way talk. Give delivery drivers instructions or determine why someone’s at your door.
• Smart locks and home automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door, let the delivery driver put deliveries inside, and then lock or close the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on a bright light or audible alerts if a lurker gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

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

• Request a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for higher value items. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Tell couriers where you would like packages placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Redirect packages. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to another location, like your workplace or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon provide secure lockers in Detroit where you can pick up deliveries.

Prevent package theft in Detroit with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages spoil your holiday season. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll appreciate having remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance devices that proactively deter crime. Communicate with couriers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, even when you’re away. Contact (313) 766-2527 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Detroit.