Porch theft: Trends and prevention ahead of the holidays

The data is stunning. According to the 2025 Package Theft Report from Security.org, package thieves stole $8.2 billion in online purchases in 2025. Overall, approximately 25% of Americans have had a package stolen at some time in their lives. 

Porch pirates are obviously still a threat, especially during the holiday season, but you don't have to be a victim! See how a layered strategy and current smart home technology can keep your parcels protected in Abilene.

Layered protection keeps Abilene package thieves away

Holidays are stressful enough with packed calendars, travel chaos, budgets stretched to the limit, and inlaws who stay too long. The last thing you want is a pilfered package to push you over the top. So, how do you prevent it? Ordering a video doorbell is a solid opening move, but there’s a lot more to preventing package theft. 

A layered approach can include:

• Surveillance cameras around your home’s perimeter. Let thieves know they’re being watched.
• Home security signs. It’s old-school but still an effective deterrent. 
• Motion-activated lights. A sudden burst of light is often enough to send prowlers running. Just remember, porch theft commonly occurs during the day.
• Connecting with your neighbors. It’s not only about what devices you have. Neighbors should keep an eye out for each other and report suspicious behavior. 

Current technology improves your protection

Home security keeps evolving. You can use these advancements to help prevent porch theft at your Abilene property. Consider the following options:

• Doorbell cameras with two-way audio. Tell delivery people where to leave packages or ask why someone’s on your doorstep.
• Smart door locks and automation. Modern home security systems can be controlled remotely. Unlock your front door, let the delivery person 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 warning lights or audible alerts if a prowler gets too close. 

Make smart delivery choices

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

• Require a signature. This is a smart choice, specifically for high-value items. Your packages will never be left out in the open. 
• Provide instructions. Let drivers know where you would like boxes placed and keep them hidden from view.
• Reroute packages. Ship higher-value deliveries to an alternate location, like your place of work or a secure pickup locker. Providers like Amazon have secure lockers in Abilene where you can retrieve your orders.

Halt package theft in Abilene with a Vivint smart home

Don’t allow pilfered packages to ruin your holiday season. A cutting-edge Vivint smart home will put your mind at ease and keep your parcels in the right hands. You’ll enjoy remote access, smart home automation, and surveillance cameras that help stop crime before it happens. Speak with delivery drivers or even unlock your front door for package drop-offs, regardless of where you are. Call (325) 378-0098 today to find out more and arrange your home security installation in Abilene.