Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves made off with $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. All told, one in four Americans has been a victim of package theft at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a problem, most of all during the busy holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered strategy and the latest smart home tech can keep your deliveries secure in Columbia.

Layered protection keeps Columbia porch pirates away

Holidays are already stressful enough with in-laws who overstay their welcome, stretched-out budgets, scheduling conflicts, and travel chaos. The last thing you want is a missing delivery to send you over the top. So, how can you stop it taking place? Adding a video doorbell is a solid first step, but there’s a lot more to preventing package theft. 

A layered strategy can include:

• Security cameras around your home’s border. Let thieves know they’re being recorded.
• Security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A burst of light is typically enough to send prowlers away. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at all hours.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you own. Neighbors should look out for each other and flag suspicious behavior. 

Current technology strengthens your security

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

• Video doorbells with two-way talk. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or find out why someone’s at your door.
• Smart door locks and home automation. Modern home security can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door, have a delivery driver put parcels inside, and then close or lock the entrance once they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are doorbell and exterior cameras that trigger a light display or sounds if someone comes too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered defense and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery decisions. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, especially for more expensive items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you want parcels left and keep them hidden from view.
• Change the delivery address. Deliver higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a self-service storage locker. Providers like Amazon offer secure lockers in Columbia where you can grab deliveries.

Stop package theft in Columbia with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that actively deter crime. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for delivery drop-offs, regardless of your location. Place a call to (803) 921-0946 today to find out more and book your smart home installation in Columbia.