Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The statistics are eye-opening. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online delivery orders in 2025. All told, approximately 25% of Americans have been a victim of package theft at least once in their lives. 

Porch pirates are clearly still an issue, most of all during the holiday season, but there’s no reason you have to be a victim. Explore how a layered strategy and current smart home tech can keep your parcels safe in Lawrence.

Layered security keeps Lawrence package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with travel chaos, packed calendars, overextended budgets, and in-laws who test your nerves. The last thing you need is a stolen package to push you over the edge. So, what can you do to stop it from happening? Adding a video doorbell is a good idea, but there’s more to the puzzle of deterring porch theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Security cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know someone’s watching.
• Security signs and decals. It’s low-tech but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A burst of light is usually enough to send thieves away. Just remember, porch theft commonly happens during the day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not just about the security devices you own. Neighbors can look out for each other and report unusual behavior. 

Modern technology strengthens your defense

Home security keeps evolving. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Lawrence home. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way communication. Give instructions to delivery drivers or determine why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security can be managed from wherever you are. Unlock your front door or open your garage, have a delivery driver put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance once they’re done. 
• Cameras with active deterrence. You’ll come across doorbell and outside cameras that trigger warning lights or sounds if someone comes too close. 

Make smart delivery decisions

A layered strategy and modern tech will help curtail package theft, but you can also help yourself by selecting optional delivery services. To illustrate:

• Require a signature. This is a wise choice, especially for higher value goods. Deliveries will never be left out in the open. 
• Give instructions. Tell couriers where you would like boxes left and keep them out of sight.
• Change the delivery address. Ship more expensive deliveries to an alternate location, like your office or a secure pickup locker. Carriers like Amazon provide secure lockers in Lawrence where you can retrieve deliveries.

Halt package theft in Lawrence with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages dampen your holiday cheer. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, custom home automation, and surveillance cameras that actively deter crime. Communicate with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, no matter your location. Place a call to (785) 829-4689 today to find out more and arrange your smart home installation in Lawrence.