Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The figures are staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. Overall, one in four Americans has had a package taken at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still a threat, particularly during the holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you have to be targeted. Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your deliveries secure in Rochester.

Layered protection keeps Rochester package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, scheduling headaches, stretched-out budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. 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 doorbell camera is a good idea, but there’s more to preventing porch theft. 

A layered defense can include:

• Video cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is often enough to send prowlers away. But don’t forget, porch theft happens at all hours.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have in place. Neighbors should keep an eye out for one another and report unusual behavior. 

Modern technology strengthens your protection

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

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated remotely. Unlock your front door, let the delivery person put packages inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across exterior and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or audible alerts if someone ventures too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. For example:

• Require a signature. This is a great choice, specifically for high-value items. Deliveries will never be left unattended. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like parcels dropped off and keep them out of view.
• Reroute packages. Ship more expensive deliveries to somewhere else, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Rochester where you can pick up your orders.

Prevent package theft in Rochester with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow stolen packages to dampen your holiday cheer. An advanced Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your deliveries protected. You’ll benefit from remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance devices that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to delivery drivers or even open your garage for delivery drop-offs, no matter your location. Call (585) 534-3389 today to learn more and schedule your home security installation in Rochester.