Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is stunning. As noted in the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion worth of online delivery orders in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package taken at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. Explore how a layered plan and modern smart home technology can keep your packages protected in Fort Worth.

Layered protection keeps Fort Worth package bandits away

Holidays are stressful enough with in-laws who test your nerves, budgets stretched to the limit, scheduling headaches, and travel nightmares. The last thing you need is a stolen package to send you over the top. So, what can you do to stop it taking place? Installing a doorbell camera is a solid first step, but there’s a lot more to stopping porch pirates. 

A layered defense can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still a proven deterrent. 
• Motion-sensing lights. A flash of light is typically enough to scare criminals off. Just remember, porch theft happens at all times of day.
• Getting to know your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you own. Neighbors can watch out for each other and take note of unusual behavior. 

Today’s tech boosts your security

Home security is always evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Fort Worth property. Here are several worth considering:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart locks and home automation. Modern home security systems can be operated from a distance. Unlock your front door or open your garage, let the courier put packages inside, and then close or lock the entrance when they’re done. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. You’ll come across outdoor and doorbell cameras that activate a bright light or sounds if someone ventures too close. 

Make smart delivery decisions

A layered defense and modern devices will help prevent package theft, but you can also help yourself by choosing optional delivery services. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a wise choice, particularly for more expensive items. Your orders will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you want packages dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Ship more expensive deliveries to another location, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Companies like Amazon offer secure lockers in Fort Worth where you can pick up your orders.

Stop package theft in Fort Worth with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let missing packages dampen your holiday cheer. A modern Vivint smart home will ease your mind and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll benefit from remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that proactively deter crime. Talk to delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, regardless of your location. Contact (817) 241-5844 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Fort Worth.