Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is staggering. Per the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, thieves swiped $8.2 billion in online orders in 2025. In all, around 25% of Americans have been a victim of this crime at some point in their lives. 

Porch pirates are definitely still a problem, particularly during the busy holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a victim. See how a layered plan and modern smart home tech can keep your deliveries secure in Flint.

A layered defense keeps Flint package thieves away

Holidays are already a challenge with scheduling conflicts, travel delays, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you need is a missing delivery to send you over the edge. So, how can you stop it from happening? Adding a doorbell camera is a good opening move, but there’s more to deterring porch pirates. 

A layered approach can include:

• Surveillance cameras covering your home’s perimeter. Let trespassers know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs and decals. It’s simple but still a powerful deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A flash of light is often enough to scare prowlers off. But don’t forget, porch theft occurs at all times of day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not merely about the security devices you have. Neighbors can look out for each other and take note of suspicious behavior. 

Today’s tech improves your defense

Home security continues to evolve. You can take advantage of these advancements to prevent porch theft at your Flint property. Consider the following options:

• Video doorbells with two-way audio. Give delivery drivers instructions or ask why someone’s on your porch.
• Smart door locks and custom automation. Today’s home security systems can be operated remotely. Open your garage, tell the delivery driver put parcels inside, and then secure the entrance when they leave. 
• Surveillance with active deterrence. There are outdoor and doorbell cameras that turn on warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler gets too close. 

Make good delivery choices

A layered strategy and modern tech will help stop package theft, but you can also be proactive and make smarter delivery decisions. For instance:

• Demand a signature. This is a great choice, especially for higher value items. Your packages will never be left sitting outside. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you want packages dropped off and keep them out of sight.
• Redirect packages. Send higher-dollar deliveries to somewhere else, like your place of work or a self-service locker. Providers like Amazon have secure lockers in Flint where you can retrieve your packages.

Halt package theft in Flint with a Vivint smart home

Don’t let stolen packages spoil your holiday season. An advanced Vivint smart home will give you peace of mind and keep your packages protected. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and video cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Talk to couriers or even open your garage for deliveries, even when you’re away. Place a call to (810) 672-7953 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Flint.